Smart Pocket Watch: Exploring the Design Space for Wearable Technology in Healthcare

Abstract

Wearable technology has great potential in improving the work routines of medical professionals such as nurses and orderlies in the healthcare domain. Although wearable technology such as smartwatches can have a positive impact on the life of both patients and medical professionals, its usage is often not possible due to strict hygiene regulations. In this paper, we investigate the design space for a wearable device to support medical professionals in a hospital context that meets the requirements of the 'Bare Below the Elbows' hygiene policy. We conducted two workshops with eleven medical professionals to elicit requirements and to co-design such a wearable device. Specifically, we aimed to answer questions related to the form factor, mounting options as well as must-have functionalities and features.