From print to digital: Digitalization and usability evaluation of the user manual for technical and healthcare professionals for the Hilotherm ChemoCare.
Aim and Research Question(s)
This thesis aims to improve the accessibility and usability of critical information related to the Hilotherm ChemoCare device for healthcare professionals and technicians. The goal is to reduce reliance on printed manuals and initial training, which are often hard to access in time-sensitive hospital environments. To address this, the study proposes a QR-code-based system that links to a webpage with essential usage and maintenance instructions. The research will explore the perceived usability of this digital platform using the System Usability Score (SUS) and evaluate user preference over traditional printed manuals.
Background
In Austria, around 400,000 people are currently living with cancer, and this number is projected to rise to 460,000 by 2030 [1]. Cancer is commonly treated with chemotherapy, which affects the entire body and often causes significant side effects. One of the more severe side effects is Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN), which can lead to pain, numbness, and reduced quality of life due to nerve damage in the hands and feet [2]. Research has shown that cooling the extremities during chemotherapy can help reduce the risk or severity of CIPN [3]. Hilotherm GmbH addresses this issue by producing specialized cooling devices, and this thesis seeks to enhance their usability through the integration of a QR code system.
Methods
To improve access to critical information about the Hilotherm ChemoCare device, a digital webpage was developed, accessible via a QR code placed directly on the device. The webpage was designed to offer role-specific content for medical staff and technicians, including step-by-step instructions and maintenance guidelines. To evaluate the usability of the platform, the System Usability Scale (SUS) was used, providing quantitative feedback from study participants.
Results and Discussion
The findings indicate that the QR code-based website effectively meets users' needs for rapid access to information. The high SUS score of 93.5 demonstrates consistently strong perceived usability across participants, while qualitative feedback shows a clear preference for the website over the printed manual. The results, together with the absence of “redundant” ratings, highlight the website’s suitability as a user-centred information tool.
Conclusion
The present thesis demonstrates that the developed cognitive support tool effectively meets users' needs for quick and accessible information. In the context of ongoing staff shortages in Austrian hospitals, the implementation of such a tool has the potential to contribute to a reduction in workload and stress, thereby supporting healthcare staff in their daily tasks.
References
[1] H. Monika, „Zahl der Krebskranken steigt bis 2030 um 15 %“. [2] H. Kacem, A. Cimini, M. d’Angelo, und V. Castelli, „Molecular and Cellular Involvement in CIPN“, Biomedicines, Bd. 12, Nr. 4, S. 751, März 2024, doi: 10.3390/biomedicines12040751. [3] E. Oneda u.a., „Innovative Approach for the Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Cancer Patients: A Pilot Study With the Hilotherm Device, the Poliambulanza Hospital Experience“, Integr Cancer Ther, Bd. 19, S. 1534735420943287, 2020, doi: 10.1177/1534735420943287.