Reimagining Reading Room Ergonomics
Rebecca L. Seidel, MD, associate professor and breast imaging specialist, and Elizabeth A. Krupinski, PhD, professor and expert in human factors affecting imaging interpretation, are investigating radiologists’ susceptibility to sitting disease, a term for the negative effects of being sedentary. Their latest research found most radiologists experience discomfort in at least one body area. Long hours spent sitting at a computer workstation significantly contributed to pain incidence and severity. While overall pain levels did not differ by gender, the location and severity of pain did.
“Chronic pain and fatigue can degrade the quality of imaging interpretation. As physicians, we need to take care of ourselves to ensure the highest quality of patient care,” Dr. Seidel says.
The team provides recommendations for optimizing ergonomics in the reading room and during image-guided procedures. They also suggest education about exercises, stretching, and posture adjustments to reduce pain. Their work is featured in The Science of Imaging Informatics in Medicine podcast, a Mayo Clinic continuing education course, journal articles, and conference presentations.
“Chronic pain and fatigue can degrade the quality of imaging interpretation. As physicians, we need to take care of ourselves to ensure the highest quality of patient care,” Dr. Seidel says.
The team provides recommendations for optimizing ergonomics in the reading room and during image-guided procedures. They also suggest education about exercises, stretching, and posture adjustments to reduce pain. Their work is featured in The Science of Imaging Informatics in Medicine podcast, a Mayo Clinic continuing education course, journal articles, and conference presentations.