A Behavioral Change Intervention System to Support the Hydration Habits of Nurses in Hospital Wards

• Main Authors: Owen Purvis, Richard Evans
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-11-01
• Series: Sustainability
• Subjects: behavior change intervention (BCI); hydration; health and well-being; hospital management; public sector intervention
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/22/9391

This paper reports on the design and development of a Behavior Change Intervention (BCI) device and service provision aimed at supporting the personal hydration habits of the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) ward-based nurses. A conceptual solution is proposed that has been developed using an iterative design process, following an adapted version of the double-diamond approach, over a seven-month time period from 11 October 2019–13 May 2020. The research was completed in collaboration with the Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom. A thematic review of related literature was completed to identify key research questions. Consultation with a senior long-serving NHS nurse and a real-time observation study was completed in an NHS ward to answer these questions within the research scope. Collected data were analyzed and insights into the behaviors of nurses and the contextual factors influencing them were provided. Reusable BCI devices and a habit formation program, incorporating a smart fob watch and water station, are proposed inside of a cradle-to-cradle system. Finally, the parameters of the developed solution are defined, and the device and user experience are visualized using computer renders and storyboards. Aspects of the device functionality and feasibility have been proven and visualized using graphic devices, and their use for data collection to inform healthcare management and improvements is discussed.