A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Mobile Robots and RFID Technology-Based Smart Care Environment for Minimizing Risks Related to Employee Turnover during Pandemics
Authors: Poberznik Anja, Leino Mirka, Huhtasalo Jenni, Jyräkoski Taina, Valo Pauli, Lehtinen Tommi, Kortelainen Joonas, Merilampi Sari, Virkki Johanna
Publisher: MDPI
Publication year: 2021
Journal: Sustainability
Journal name in source: SUSTAINABILITY
Article number: 12809
Volume: 13
Issue: 22
Number of pages: 12
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su132212809
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/68499124
During a pandemic, it is imperative that all staff members have up-to-date information on changing work practices in the healthcare environment. This article presents a way to implement work environment orientation amongst different groups in care facilities by utilizing mobile robots, radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies, and data synthesis. We offer a scenario based on a co-design approach, in which a mobile robot works as an orientation guide for new employees, RFID tags are applied on objects around the premises and people's clothing. The mobile robot takes advantage of the information provided by its known location and each RFID tag read by the RFID reader integrated with the robot. We introduce the scenario here, along with the details of its practical test implementation. Further, the challenges met in the test implementation are discussed as well as the future potential of its application. In conclusion, our study indicates that repetitive training and orientation-related duties can be successfully transferred to a mobile robot. Through RFID, the mobile robot can deliver the relevant information to the right people and thus contribute to patient and personnel safety and the resource efficiency of the orientation process.
Downloadable publication This is an electronic reprint of the original article. |  |
