In collaboration with nurses at Baystate Medical Center (BMC), this project uses wearable sensors and real-time data analytics to study nurse stressors in dynamic hospital environments. The goal is to identify unpredictable workload factors—such as sudden shifts in patient volume or acuity—and assess their impact on nurse well-being and patient safety.
The research involves two independent observers collecting detailed workflow data from 13 nurses over two to three weeks. Nurses will wear biometric sensors that track physical activity, stress, and fatigue levels. Surveys and interviews conducted before and after shifts, along with time-series data, will inform a comprehensive analysis.
Expected outcomes include actionable insights to inform evidence-based staffing strategies, work scheduling, and policies that foster a healthier and more sustainable nursing workforce. The team notes, “This collaboration between healthcare professionals and engineers will deepen our understanding of nurse well-being from both clinical and technological perspectives, advancing research and improving healthcare system resilience.”
Team
