Improve usability and safety of wearable pump for Type 2 Diabetes patients

A medical device manufacturer sought to evaluate the usability and safety of the patch pump and training with potential patients and healthcare providers.

Challenge

A medical device manufacturer sought to test a simplified wearable patch pump for Type 2 diabetics that would communicate to users without the use of a primary display or companion device.

Approach

Our research approach included a certified diabetes educator who administered a 2-hour group training session with participants. After a minimum decay period of 24 hours, we observed participants using a non-functioning prototype.

Outcome

Participant performance with the pump suggested patients would benefit from improvements to device training and support materials, such as the instructions for use (IFU). We provided the manufacturer with detailed recommendations for device improvement. We also delivered a robust human factors report that analyzed all errors experienced by participants.

Industry:

Health

Method/Process:

Documentation

Stimuli:

Pumps and drug delivery devices