Nurses Work System Optimization: Macroergonomics Perspective

Abstract

The hospital work system as a complex sociotechnical system has been an interesting research environment for human factor/ergonomic researchers. In this chapter dimensions of nurses' work system elements were presented and Macroergonomics approaches were pointed out to optimize the interaction between nurses and other system elements. From Macroergonomics perspectives, human factor researchers would be able to identify and categorize health and performance issues through a systematic approach. Researchers are believed that this approach was not shown positive results initially, therefore a low-hanging fruit strategy is recommended. Decomposing work system elements is a potential opportunity to track the balance in the hospital nurse work system by considering these elements for redesigning work systems and applying appropriate interventions.