Today was one of the most interactive and collaborative days we’ve had so far in Bilbao! In the morning, we headed to the engineering school where we learned about a research project involving smart wheelchairs designed to monitor pressure distribution and patient positioning. The team demonstrated how the sensors respond to shifts in body weight and explained how the data could help healthcare providers collect data. It was interesting to see how technology and healthcare can work together to improve patient care in practical ways.
After the presentation, we were divided into interdisciplinary groups with half nursing and half engineering students. Each group was assigned a common hospital related issue and challenged to design a possible solution. My group focused on preventing bedsores in patients who remain in the same position for long periods of time. This scenario is an extremely real problem in many hospitals, especially those focusing on rehabilitation. Before brainstorming, we acted out different scenarios to better understand the discomfort and risks patients experience when mobility is limited. This activity helped us recognize how important repositioning and pressure relief are in preventing skin breakdown, as well as how weight and mobility issues played a role in the amount of nurses needed. During our research, we also found how big of a role temperature plays in bedsores.
As we began developing ideas, everyone contributed different perspectives based on their background and experiences. The collaboration between nursing and engineering students was especially valuable because we were able to combine practical patient care knowledge with creative design ideas. Our group decided to design a wearable gown with temperature sensors. This form of preventative care would allow nurses to receive alerts before a bedsore happens, allowing treatment to be less painful and easier. We created a small prototype out of clay and later presented it to the class. The other groups gave us feedback and suggestions that helped us think more carefully about how the device could work in a real healthcare setting. One problem our group did not fully think about enough was how the gown may trap moisture due to its thickness. I was glad to have the opportunity to hear everyone’s constructive criticism!
Later in the afternoon, we visited the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum for a guided tour through several exhibits. The museum had a wide mix of styles, from traditional paintings to more modern and abstract works. We also learned about Denise Scott Brown and her influence on architecture and urban design. After spending most of the morning focused on healthcare innovation, the museum visit provided a completely different experience.
After the museum, the entire group decided to go shopping. To end the day, a smaller group went out to try some authentic Spanish food. It was so good, no regrets! It was a great way to end the day! Overall, today highlighted the importance of teamwork, creativity, and looking at problems from different perspectives. Can’t wait for more!
