A biomechanical and subjective assessment and comparison of three ambulance cot design configurations

作者：Sommerich Carolyn M^*; Lavender Steven A; Umar Radin Zaid Radin; Le Peter; Mehta Jay; Ko Pei Ling; Farfan Rafael; Dutt Mohini; Park SangHyun

来源：Ergonomics, 2012, 55(11): 1350-1361.

DOI：10.1080/00140139.2012.706715

• musculoskeletal injury
• EMS
• paramedic
• occupational injury
• engineering control
• patient handling

Effects of ambulance cot design features (handle design and leg folding mechanism) were evaluated. Experienced ambulance workers performed tasks simulating loading and unloading a cot to and from an ambulance, and a cot raising task. Muscle activity, ratings of perceived exertion, and performance style were significantly affected by cot condition (p < 0.05). Erector Spinae activity was significantly less when using Cot-2's stretcher-style handles. Shoulder muscle activity was significantly less when using Cot-2's loop handle. During loading and unloading, operators allowed the cot to support its own weight most often with Cot-2's stretcher-style handles. Preference for Cot-2 (either handles) over Cot-1 (with loop handle) was consistent across tasks. Handle effects were influenced by operator stature; taller participants received more benefit from Cot-2's stretcher-style handles; shoulder muscles' demands were greater for shorter participants due to handle location. Providing handle options and automatic leg folding/unfolding operation can reduce cot operator's effort and physical strain.

• 出版日期2012