Why and How to Approach User Experience in Safety-Critical Domains: The Example of Health Care

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Cognitive Psychology
• Safety-Critical Systems Design

Background:

• Healthcare technology interaction predominantly uses classic cognitive psychology theories.
• Current approaches prioritize safety and efficiency over user experience.
• Limited consideration of user experience impacts technology design and staff well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• Highlight the importance of personal user experience in safety-critical domains.
• Summarize interaction concepts and theories for addressing user experience.
• Explore how user experience can improve technology design and safety management.

Main Methods:

• Reviewed modern human-computer interaction theories.
• Focused on concepts of interaction incorporating personal user experience.
• Utilized an anesthesiology example to illustrate theoretical applications.

Main Results:

• Activity theory, embodiment, and interaction as experience offer theoretical foundations.
• Each theory provides a distinct yet complementary perspective on user experience.
• Methodological approaches for evaluating personal experience differ across theories.

Conclusions:

• Integrating user experience in healthcare and safety-critical domains optimizes technology interaction.
• Enhanced user experience contributes to staff well-being.
• Considering personal experience can improve overall safety management.