Innovating Pain Management: Avanos' ON-Q Pump

Name of device

ON-Q pump with SELECT-A-FLOW variable rate controller

Challenge

Avanos Medical needed to modify the device's user interface to increase intuitiveness with a goal of improving the likelihood that users perform critical tasks correctly and with ease. In addition, HFR&D worked with Avanos to iteratively evaluate the evolving user interface design to help ensure the final device's safe and effective use.

Solution

We presented initial design concepts that reflected hardware user interface changes that were intended to improve the device's intuitiveness and use-safety. Avanos' in-house engineering team prototyped two concepts, which we evaluated during a formative usability test. We analyzed the formative test results, identified the strengths and drawbacks of both concepts, and ultimately recommended a revised concept. We conducted a pre-validation test during which we identified a few additional opportunities to improve the revised concept as well as the instructions for use. Once the design was finalized, we conducted an HF validation usability test, which confirmed that the three intended user groups could use the device safely and effectively.

Impact

As a result of our iterative usability testing, Avanos felt confident that the new design would be used safely and effectively once marketed. Avanos' dedication to applying a user-centered design approach helped ensure the new design was highly intuitive, which ultimately enables the device's users to focus on patient care.