Ergonomic Workstation on Wheels Checklist for Nurses

November 12th, 2020
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Ergonomic Workstation on Wheels Checklist for Nurses

Workstations on wheels have made patient care easier and safer. They have become more common in the healthcare setting. Some guidance from Cornell University will aid in assuring that powered computer carts are safe and effective. This checklist relates to computer carts rather than medication carts and can be used to evaluate a number of carts or just one.

Sections include the following: Maneuvering; Work surfaces; Screen and Document Reading; Storage, Accessories and Power and Hygiene. Scoring is one point for each yes. Omit questions that are not relevant and adjust the score. The best ergonomically-designed carts will have a score of 35.

Maneuvering

  1. Are there comfortable grips for pulling and pushing? Yes No 
  2. Are the cart handles adjustable for height? Yes No 
  3. Can the cart be pushed with minimal force? Yes No 
  4. Whether being pushed or pulled, is the cart easy to maneuver and steer? Yes No
  5. Can the cart be steered between tight spaces; is it narrow enough? Yes No 

Work Surfaces

  1. Will the cart support the laptop, thin client, or desktop of choice? Yes No 
  2. Does the cart have a stable worksurface platform for writing/medication preparation? Yes No 
  3. Is the cart height adjustable, negative tilt keyboard platform (0 to -15 degrees)? Yes No 
  4. Does the cart include a mouse platform that is adjustable? Yes No
  5. Does the cart allow the worksurface to be raised to at least 48 inches from the floor easily? Yes No 
  6. Is there a means of stowing the mouse on the cart? Yes No 
  7. Can the cart allow keyboard or mouse platform to pivot for use in confined spaces? Yes No 
  8. When nurses are standing, can keyboard platform be raised 48 inches from floor? Yes No 
  9. For sitting, can keyboard platform be adjusted to 25 inches from floor? Yes No
  10. Does cart design have a stable platform for typing and using the mouse? Yes No 

Screen and Document Reading

  1. Does cart allow for independent height adjustment of a computer screen? Yes No 
  2. When standing, can 17 inches LCD screen be raised to 71 inches from the floor? Yes No 
  3. When sitting, 17 inches LCD screen be lowered to 32 inches from the floor? Yes No 
  4. Can user swivel and tilt the computer screen to a comfortable viewing? Yes No
  5. Does the cart offer a stable support for the desired size and number of computer screens? Yes No 

Storage, Accessories and Power

  1. Is there sufficient storage for tasks? Yes No 
  2. Does the cart accommodate all of the required accessories for task needs? Yes No 
  3. Does the cart have appropriate security measures to prevent equipment from theft? Yes No 
  4. Is there an easily readable display of battery power? Yes No
  5. Are there visual and audible warnings of an impending low power issue?Yes No 
  6. Can the batter be quickly and easily charged? Yes No 
  7. Is the power plug easily reachable for recharging? Yes No 
  8. Does the battery recharge quickly enough? Yes No 
  9. Is there battery life that is adequate for the task demands? Yes No
  10. Does the cart provide the required power outlets and electrical characteristics? Yes No 

Hygiene

  1. Is the cart made from easy-to-clean materials? Yes No 
  2. Are cart surfaces made from the right materials that will not crack or chip? Yes No 
  3. Are cart materials not too hot or too cold when touched? Yes No 
  4. Can the cart cool the battery without dispersing contaminants? Yes No 

Total Score

A cart on wheels that scores a total of 35 will be better ergonomically-designed and might be an ideal solution. If you have a question regarding one of our workstation designs, contact us. We want to help you find an ergonomic cart on wheels that is right for your healthcare staff, their comfort and your facility needs.