Proposal for development of a safety device for ophthalmologic office equipment

Abstract

Objective: The present study proposes the development of a safety device, similar to a face shield, to be directly coupled to equipment for ophthalmic use, in order to make its use not only safe from the point of view of biological risks, but also ergonomic. Material and Methods: Using a 3D printer, the prototype of the face shield was made and its fitting was performed in an ophthalmological equipment, the Indirect Binocular Ophthalmoscope (OBI), in order to replace the original helmet of the device, coupling its portion optics directly on the central support to fix the shield. Results and Discussion: The prototype developed to replace the OBI helmet proved to be feasible for its purpose; however, it was not comfortable to use. Because its fixation band was not padded, using it for a long period, presented some instability, displacing it downward. The suggestion of making adjustments to the prototype development project and additional tests will produce a more ergonomic design. Conclusions: The need to encourage studies and research in the context of improvement and proposals for the redesign of medical equipment that may not be suitable for the conditions of biosafety and ergonomics is highlighted, especially during a pandemic that requires social isolation, access to health services needs to be maintained efficiently and safely.

Keywords: Containment of Biohazards; Ergonomics; Ophthalmology