Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026

The Dyspepsia Educational Tool As a Novel Aid in Dyspepsia Management
Published on: June 29, 2019
The effect of design on the usability and real world effectiveness of medical devices: a case study with adolescent
Alexandra R Lang1, Jennifer L Martin, Sarah Sharples
1Human Factors Research Group & MATCH, MATCH Office, Tower Building, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK. alexandra.lang@nottingham.ac.uk
Abstract:
Adolescents are currently overlooked in many fields of healthcare research and as a result are often required to use medical devices that have been designed for use by either children or adults. This can lead to poor adherence and a reduction in health outcomes. This study examines the role of device design in the real-world effectiveness of a medical device used in the treatment of cystic fibrosis from the perspective of adolescent users. Interactive design interviews were carried out with 20 adolescent users of the acapella(®) physiotherapy device to investigate user requirements and themes about the user-device relationship that are important to this user group. This study found that adolescent users of the acapella(®) device do not use the device as regularly and correctly as is recommended by clinicians. A number of aspects of the current design of the acapella(®) device were identified that affect how and how often it is used. Five factors are identified that may improve the real world effectiveness of the acapella(®) device for adolescents with Cystic Fibrosis: engagement, information, confidence, aesthetics and compatibility with lifestyle.
Related Concept Videos
Structure-Activity Relationships and Drug Design
SAR studies the intricate relationship between a drug's chemical structure and biological activity. It focuses on understanding how modifications to a drug's structure can influence its...
Bioavailability Study Design: Healthy Subjects Versus Patients
Biopharmaceutical Factors Influencing Drug Product Design: Overview

