Inpatient Caregivers' Perceptions of the Use of Passive Exoskeletons in Daily work - A Case Study

Abstract

Background: Nurses in inpatient care are affected by heavy physical activities in their daily recurring working tasks. This includes transferring persons or helping persons to stand up. Such tasks are the reason why caregivers often suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain. Various robotic systems are already used to relieve the burden on caregivers. Passive exoskeletons have only recently been offered to provide physical relief. Research from other industries and among caregivers shows that objective physical relief can be achieved through the targeted use of passive exoskeletons. To date, however, there is no research on caregivers' subjective perceptions of wearing passive exoskeletons in their daily work.

Population and methods: This case study refers to the perception of four caregivers (m = 1; f = 3) in an inpatient long-term care facility. Two different passive exoskeletons were worn during the shift on different days for on average 5.75 hours. Subsequently, a self-developed questionnaire was completed by the caregivers after having worn both exoskeletons.

Results: All subjects perceived a subjective physical relief by wearing both exoskeletons. The exoskeletons were perceived as comfortable, especially in the lumbar spine region. In general, it can be stated that caregivers are so far hardly aware of the existence, the functionality, and the benefits of passive exoskeletons for care until they get the opportunity to wear and try one.

Discussion and conclusion: Structure and functioning of the exoskeletons seem to make a difference on the perception of the passive exoskeleton. Prior information could increase acceptance by the caregivers.