Presentation
Beyond Biomechanical Benefit: Task-Dependent Technology Acceptance of a Passive Low-Back Exoskeleton in EMS
DescriptionObjective. This study evaluated the usability and technology acceptance of a passive low-back exoskeleton among Emergency Medical Services (EMS) clinicians during simulated tasks.
Background. EMS clinicians experience among the highest rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the United States. Passive exoskeletons demonstrate biomechanical benefits in laboratory and controlled settings, yet adoption in real-world EMS environments remains inconsistent. This gap suggests that factors beyond biomechanical performance, particularly task context, influence how perceived usefulness translates into adoption decisions.
Method. Twenty-two EMS-certified clinicians completed a high-fidelity laboratory simulation of five EMS-relevant tasks while wearing a passive low-back exosuit. Usability was evaluated using ISO 9241-11, and technology acceptance was assessed using a modified Technology Acceptance Model.
Results. Perceived usefulness (4.09 ± 0.55) and attitude (4.17 ± 0.41) were high, while behavioral intention showed greater variability (3.76 ± 0.82). Task context was significantly associated with perceived ease of use (R² = .40). Despite high perceived usefulness, behavioral intention varied across tasks and operational conditions. Qualitative findings showed that clinicians evaluated adoption in relation to specific task demands.
Conclusion. High perceived usefulness alone does not guarantee adoption of occupational wearables in EMS settings.
Background. EMS clinicians experience among the highest rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the United States. Passive exoskeletons demonstrate biomechanical benefits in laboratory and controlled settings, yet adoption in real-world EMS environments remains inconsistent. This gap suggests that factors beyond biomechanical performance, particularly task context, influence how perceived usefulness translates into adoption decisions.
Method. Twenty-two EMS-certified clinicians completed a high-fidelity laboratory simulation of five EMS-relevant tasks while wearing a passive low-back exosuit. Usability was evaluated using ISO 9241-11, and technology acceptance was assessed using a modified Technology Acceptance Model.
Results. Perceived usefulness (4.09 ± 0.55) and attitude (4.17 ± 0.41) were high, while behavioral intention showed greater variability (3.76 ± 0.82). Task context was significantly associated with perceived ease of use (R² = .40). Despite high perceived usefulness, behavioral intention varied across tasks and operational conditions. Qualitative findings showed that clinicians evaluated adoption in relation to specific task demands.
Conclusion. High perceived usefulness alone does not guarantee adoption of occupational wearables in EMS settings.
Event Type
Lecture
TimeThursday, October 22nd11:40am - 12pm PDT
Location
Similar Presentations