Today, we headed over to the School of Engineering right after breakfast. We visited a research group to learn about different types of wheelchairs and how they can be better suited for patients needing long-term care. The specific wheelchair we looked at had pressure sensors designed to help prevent falls by tracking the patient’s center of mass. After the presentation, we split into groups for our design project day. Each group was made up of both nursing and engineering students, and we were assigned a specific problem to address. My group focused on mitigating hospital falls and injuries. We started by reviewing videos and identifying some of the most common causes of falls. We also acted out different scenarios, with one person playing the patient, to better understand the risks and challenges.

After looking into existing designs, we decided we wanted to focus on prevention rather than just responding after a fall occurs. Our idea was to design bed rails with three different zones that correspond to patient movement. The mattress would have pressure sensors that detect shifts in weight and position. If a patient begins to move too far toward one side, the system would recognize that they are entering a higher-risk zone. At that point, the bed rails would automatically adjust, rising higher as the risk increases, and a notification would be sent to the nurse. The goal is to intervene early so that the patient doesn’t attempt to get up on their own and risk falling.

However, we also recognized some potential drawbacks to our design. For example, there could be issues with false alarms if a patient simply shifts in their sleep, which could lead to alarm fatigue for nurses. There are also concerns about patient comfort and autonomy, since constantly adjusting bed rails might feel restrictive or frustrating. Additionally, implementing this type of technology could be expensive, and hospitals would need to consider whether the benefits outweigh the cost. Despite these challenges, it was really interesting to think through both the strengths and limitations of our idea. Overall, this project helped me see how complex problem-solving in healthcare can be and how important it is to consider both patient safety and practicality.

After each group presented their prototypes, we got to ask questions and really think through each group’s ideas. It allowed for feedback and different perspectives. We then headed to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. We got to see so many different beautiful pieces of art, some from Denise Scott Brown, a famous architect who designed buildings in Philadelphia. We also got to see art displayed by local European artists. Overall, it was another great day, and I can’t believe the trip is almost over!