Towards a Safer and Healthier Work Environment: Exploring the Impact of User Interface Design with Technology on Stress Reduction for Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Personnel

Abstract

This research investigates redesign opportunities in emergency medical services, aiming to reduce cognitive load for critical care paramedics using Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) in ambulance vehicles. By improving interface and interaction design, the project seeks to enhance user wellbeing, efficiency, and performance during high-stress scenarios such as emergency responses.

Due to limited access to participants, the study relied on secondary research to inform design requirements. A low-fidelity prototype was developed in Figma, allowing for iterative reflection and speculative evaluation. The design incorporates both software and hardware improvements. Software changes were guided by Hick’s Law and progressive disclosure to minimise on-screen complexity and support clear, focused task flow. Hardware enhancements include the integration of physical buttons for essential functions like Lights On, Call, and Toolkit, alongside added communication features such as a speaker and microphone to streamline critical interactions.

The proposed system aims to support faster decision-making for paramedics, accurate documentation, and reduced mental strain by aligning interface design with the realities of emergency contexts. Drawing on literature and expert input from AUT paramedic staff, the project highlights how interruption-resilient design, visual hierarchy, and thoughtful automation may produce systems that improve cognitive performance under pressure. It also considers institutional barriers to innovation in paramedicine, advocating for system-level change to enable sustainable technological adoption.