Making monitoring 'work': human-machine interaction and patient safety in anaesthesia.

Smith, Andrew F. and Mort, Maggie M. and Goodwin, Dawn and Pope, Catherine (2003) Making monitoring 'work': human-machine interaction and patient safety in anaesthesia. Anaesthesia, 58 (11). pp. 1070-1078. ISSN 1365-2044

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Abstract

This study aimed to explore the use of electronic monitoring within the context of anaesthetic practice. We conducted workplace observation of, and interviews with, anaesthetists and other anaesthetic staff in two UK hospitals. Transcripts were analysed inductively for recurrent themes. Whilst formal sources of knowledge in anaesthesia deal with the issue of monitoring in terms of theoretical principles and performance specifications of devices, anaesthetists in practice often ‘disbelieve’ monitoring information. They call on and integrate other sources of knowledge about the patient, especially from their clinical assessment. The ability to distinguish ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’ findings is vital. Confidence in electronic information varies with experience, as does the degree to which electronic information may be considered ‘redundant’. We conclude that electronic monitoring brings new dimensions of understanding but also the potential for new ways of misunderstanding. The tacit knowledge underlying the safe use of monitoring deserves greater acknowledgement in training and practice.

Item Type:
Journal Article
Journal or Publication Title:
Anaesthesia
Additional Information:
RAE_import_type : Journal article RAE_uoa_type : Social Work and Social Policy & Administration
Uncontrolled Keywords:
/dk/atira/pure/subjectarea/asjc/2700/2703
Subjects:
?? anesthesiology and pain mediciner medicine (general) ??
ID Code:
3348
Deposited By:
Deposited On:
18 Mar 2008 16:55
Refereed?:
Yes
Published?:
Published
Last Modified:
15 Jul 2024 11:00