Standardized research on ergonomics, usability and workflow analysis using high fidelity simulation labs

Realistic simulation training is on its way to spread all over healthcare [1]. For example, in Denmark simulation training is compulsory for all anaesthesiologists and nurse anaesthetists, in Germany the Anaesthesia Society DGAI promoted the establishment of simulators in all medical schools. Also the goals for using simulators become more widespread in terms of basic education, advanced training, research and even performance assessment [2]. There are many different areas of using modern patient simulators [3]. One of them is research on human factors and human limitations. One special focus of this research can be product usability and ergonomics. This research and the knowledge about human limitations can have an effect on future development to design safer devices [4]. The experience and the methodology in analysing medical cases combined with modern manikin based simulators and the infrastructure of modern simulation labs can provide a perfect test bed for innovative product development.