Human Factors and Usability of an Incentive Spirometer Patient Reminder (SpiroTimer™)

Introduction: To address the problem of incentive spirometry (IS) noncompliance, a use-tracking IS reminder device (SpiroTimer™) was developed. In a recent randomized clinical trial, the SpiroTimer™ improved IS use compliance, length of stay, and mortality. For successful, safe, and effective implementation of a new medical device, human factors and usability must be evaluated. This study aims to evaluate the SpiroTimer™’s human factors as they pertain to intended users, use environments, and uses. Material and methods: Immediately following the completion of the randomized clinical trial of the SpiroTimer™, before the providers were informed of the results of the study, a human factors and usability survey was distributed in-person to all nurses involved in the trial. Variations in nurse user perspectives were evaluated. Results: A total of 52 nurses (100% response rate) completed the survey. In general, most nurses felt IS use compliance is poor (65%; 34/52, p = 0.0265) and should be improved (94%; 49/52, p < 0.001). Nurses agreed the SpiroTimer™ ameliorated patient IS use compliance (82%; 41/50, p < 0.001), IS effectiveness (74 %; 37/50, p < 0.001), and patient engagement in their own care (88%; 44/ 50, p < 0.001). Nurses reported the SpiroTimer™ helped remind them to work with their patients on IS (70%; 35/50, p = 0.0047) while reducing the number of times they had to remind their patients to use their IS (70%; 35/50, p = 0.0047). They felt that they would use the SpiroTimer™ with all their patients (82%; 41/50, p < 0.001) and that they would recommend the SpiroTimer™ to a colleague (74%; 37/50, p < 0.001). Ultimately, most nurses believed the SpiroTimer™ should become part of routine patient care (78%; 39/50, p < 0.001). Discussion: For a new medical technology to a medical device to be effectively implemented, human factors and usability must be demonstrated. Nurses believe the clinically effective SpiroTimer™ helps both patients and nurses and should become part of routine care.