Impact of PPE on the Field of Vision of Stretcher Bearers Based on Eye Tracking Technology and Biomechanical Testing

To evaluate the impact of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) on stretcher bearers' dynamic visual field and the neck and trunk joint mobility required for environmental observation. Wearing PPE has been shown to restrict the visual field of healthcare workers, which may affect task performance, especially for stretcher bearers who perform dynamic tasks in varied environments. Twenty trained non-professional participants underwent dynamic visual field testing and performed simulated patient transfer and transport tasks, during which their eye movement data and the mobility data of their neck and trunk joints were recorded. The use of goggles significantly reduced the participants' dynamic visual field, while the use of protective clothing severely restricted the average and peak axial rotation angles of the neck joints (T1-C7, C1) during stretcher-carrying. Subjective evaluations revealed that wearing PPE led participants to perceive restricted dynamic visual fields, worsened overall visual conditions, reduced neck and head mobility and declines in task performance and satisfaction. Wearing PPE severely impairs stretcher bearers' dynamic visual field and axial neck rotation, thereby reducing their ability to observe the surrounding environment. These findings provide a basis and direction for the improved design of medical PPE goggles and protective clothing, offering insights into changing the work model of stretcher bearers using PPE. This study evaluates the impact of PPE on stretcher bearers' dynamic visual field and neck joint mobility. Results show that PPE significantly reduces dynamic visual field and restricts neck rotation, leading to increased task difficulty and a higher risk of incidents. This study proposes recommendations from three aspects to improve these conditions.