Applying Human Factors and Systems Simulation Methods to Inform a Multimillion-Dollar Healthcare Decision.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare design and safety engineering
• Human-computer interaction in clinical environments
• Systems thinking in healthcare management

Background:

• The integration of human factors (HF) and systems-focused simulation (SFS) in healthcare is underutilized for risk reduction and decision-making.
• This combined approach effectively informs the design of new healthcare environments and processes, enhancing safety, efficiency, and patient experience.
• Objective evidence generated through HF and SFS methods can significantly improve healthcare decision-making processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate potential patient and staff safety risks associated with a significant design and construction decision regarding a building connector passageway.
• To provide an objective, user-informed analysis to guide executives in choosing between renovating an existing passageway or constructing a new one.
• To demonstrate the value of integrating HF and SFS methods in healthcare for risk assessment and decision support.

Main Methods:

• An interprofessional team of intensive care unit professionals participated in two simulations of the existing connector passageway.
• Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) was employed to systematically identify potential risks and failure points.
• Qualitative debrief feedback from simulation participants was used to gather user insights and evaluate safety concerns.

Main Results:

• The evaluation generated objective data crucial for informed executive decision-making regarding the building connector.
• Identified risks associated with the current passageway informed the choice between renovation and new construction.
• The study provided evidence supporting the decision to construct a new, multimillion-dollar connector passageway.

Conclusions:

• The collaborative application of human factors and systems-focused simulation effectively identified safety risks and informed a critical infrastructure decision.
• Investing in a new connector passageway was deemed the most effective, efficient, and safest option for public, staff, and patient transport.
• This case study highlights the underutilized potential of integrated HF and SFS methods to enhance safety and optimize design in healthcare settings.