Table 2 Operational definitions of eight domains of ergonomic assessment of nurse stations

Layout and location

The floorplan of the nurse station, and component parts, in relation to the hospital ward it serves.

Workspace

The dedicated physical place where health professionals and administrators spend a significant proportion of their time.

Activities include monitoring and responding to patient status, providing therapeutic patient care, documenting interventions, supporting referrals, admissions, tests required, transfers, and release of patients.

Safety-security

Physical structures to support the physical safety of healthcare staff

Environmental conditions

Sensory input that can support or interfere with patient care.

These include lighting type, levels, and controls; noise type, levels and controls; glare-producing surfaces; slippery surfaces; ventilation; air-conditioning and heating levels and controls.

Counter

Furniture that serves to receive healthcare professionals, patients and visitors. A workspace for sharing information using documents and equipment with users of a hospital ward. Can include a surface, lights, and under counter space. May be open, and /or include lockable screen and shutters.

Desk

Furniture providing individual physical workspace. May be used seated or standing.

Chair

Furniture providing individual seating for work in nurse station.

Monitor

Computer screen.