Investigating Nurse, Patient, and Healthcare Partner Needs for Assistive Robots

Authors: Amoolya Varghese, Lexine Mae Egypto, Mallak Alqaisi

Field of Study: Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Math

Program Affiliation: Human-Centered Mindful Technologies Lab

Faculty Mentors: Stephanie Tulk Jesso

Easel: 42

Timeslot:

Abstract: Healthcare organizations face ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining nurses, exacerbated by post-pandemic burnout. This affects worker well-being, patient outcomes, and retention, prompting hospitals to explore technologies like collaborative robots (cobots). However, limited research on their effectiveness leaves hospitals relying on marketing claims and anecdotal evidence. Concerns persist that these robots may introduce inefficiencies rather than meaningful time savings. To address this, the team is applying human-centered design to adapt the Stretch 3 robot by Hello Robot for healthcare. Stretch 3, an autonomous mobile robot with a flexible arm, is being refined for two key tasks: assisting with patient care in isolation rooms and delivering supplies to nurses. Approximately 20 qualitative interviews with nurses, administrators, and patients will inform development. This research will shape robotic functionalities, aiming to enhance job satisfaction, improve retention, and introduce scalable automation for hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.