Physicians' Perceptions of a Situation Awareness-Oriented Visualization Technology for Viscoelastic Blood Coagulation...

Area of Science:

• Medical Technology
• Hematology
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Viscoelastic tests are crucial for coagulation analysis but present complex results.
• Visual Clot technology was developed to simplify the interpretation of viscoelastic test data.
• Previous simulations showed Visual Clot enhances diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate physician opinions on the Visual Clot technology.
• To assess the strengths, limitations, and clinical applicability of Visual Clot.
• To evaluate Visual Clot as a support tool for coagulation management.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study involving anesthesiologists and intensive care physicians.
• Participants used Visual Clot for six coagulation scenarios.
• Qualitative interviews and quantitative online surveys assessed user experience and opinions.

Main Results:

• Physicians reported "positive design features" (81%) and that Visual Clot "facilitates decision making" (47%).
• 93% found Visual Clot intuitive and easy to learn; 86% agreed it helps manage complex coagulation situations faster.
• 90% desired side-by-side display of Visual Clot with standard results.

Conclusions:

• Anesthesia and intensive care physicians found Visual Clot intuitive and beneficial for decision-making in bleeding scenarios.
• Visual Clot is perceived as an efficient and well-accepted tool for streamlining viscoelastic test-based coagulation management.