Workplace distractions in the digital era – are smartphones a threat to safety or an essential tool?

Shelton, C.L. and Smith, A.F. (2021) Workplace distractions in the digital era – are smartphones a threat to safety or an essential tool? Anaesthesia, 76 (3). pp. 305-308. ISSN 0003-2409

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Abstract

Anaesthesia is a technology‐dependant specialty. While the impact of total intravenous anaesthesia, video laryngoscopes and ultrasound‐guidance – to name but a few influential recent technologies – have been extensively studied [e.g. 1-4], the professional use of smartphones in anaesthesia remains relatively under‐investigated. This is perhaps an oversight considering that this ubiquitous accessory now reaches into nearly every aspect of our lives, from communication to study, shopping and dining, and indeed – to professional practice. In this issue of Anaesthesia, van Harten et al. report “An observational study of distractions in the operating theatre” [5], which among other findings, highlights the (distracting) role played by smartphones. In this editorial, we consider the utility and methodology of van Harten et al.’s work, reflect on the extent to which smartphones may threaten patient safety in anaesthesia, and ask how this can be balanced against their prominent and increasing role as a professional tool.

Item Type:
Journal Article
Journal or Publication Title:
Anaesthesia
Additional Information:
This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Shelton, C.L. and Smith, A.F. (2020), Workplace distractions in the digital era – are smartphones a threat to safety or an essential tool?. Anaesthesia. doi:10.1111/anae.15234 which has been published in final form at https://associationofanaesthetists-publications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/anae.15234 This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance With Wiley Terms and Conditions for self-archiving.
Uncontrolled Keywords:
/dk/atira/pure/subjectarea/asjc/2700/2703
Subjects:
?? COMMUNICATIONSAFETYTECHNOLOGYANESTHESIOLOGY AND PAIN MEDICINE ??
ID Code:
146972
Deposited By:
Deposited On:
01 Sep 2020 15:40
Refereed?:
Yes
Published?:
Published
Last Modified:
12 Oct 2023 00:13