As you look for new radiology imaging desks, keep one goal in mind—better patient outcomes. Can you really achieve that with a piece of furniture? We think so—as long as that piece of furniture is ergonomically designed for the comfort of the radiologist and engineered to expertly manage all the equipment. And as long as the room itself is designed by an expert for optimal workflow and collaboration. In fact, the National Library of Medicine put it quite bluntly: “Burnout among radiologists may be mitigated by a physical work environment that promotes wellness.”

Given the importance and expense of finding the right patient outcomes, we thought a little guidance might be in order. Use this handy checklist of must-have options for imaging desks as you do your research. (Tip: It’s not all boring ergo stuff! Watch this video first for a little inspiration.)

Sit-to-Stand Flexibility

• Height-adjustable desks that allow users to alternate between sitting and standing to increase productivity, decrease back pain and burn calories
• One-touch height adjustments to quickly and accurately position the desk for sitting or standing

Proper Ergonomics

• Meet or exceed the ANSI-HFES 100-2007 ergonomic standards to prevent musculoskeletal injuries such as carpal tunnel, tendonitis, back pain, headaches, eyestrain and more
• Height-adjustable range that accommodates all users, sitting or standing, from the 5^th to the 95^th percentile in height

Monitor Placement

• Bear the weight of multiple heavy and expensive monitors
• Quick and simple monitor adjustments to allow for the proper focal distance (20” to 40” from eyes) and viewing angle (gazing down 15° to 20° from eye level) to ensure a good read, protect eyes from strain, and prevent headaches and neck pain
• Easily pull in a monitor for a closer look

Mic Placement

• Dual-surface desktop to help with the ergonomic placement of microphones and keyboards
• Height-adjustable dual surface that allows for optimal mic placement for accurate speech recognition

Computer / CPU Placement

•  Computer / CPU hanger to ensure the shortest possible video cable and produce the best resolution image
•  Computer / CPU hanger to keep the floor area clear, protect it from damage, and save desktop space for other equipment

Cable Management & Data Dock

• Cable management system that ensures reliable connections, prevents tripping and provides easy access to IT
• Cellphone shelf and charging station to keep your phone at the ready
• USB inputs to easily switch the keyboard and mouse at shift change according to user preferences

Dimensions, Shape & Durability

• Desktop sized to hold a keyboard, mouse, phone, recording device, reference books, paper files and all other necessities
• Curved desk front so you can position yourself closer to the desk and create a more comfortable reach zone
• Beveled desk edge to ensure neutral wrist alignment, which helps prevent carpal tunnel and tendonitis
• Engineered for 24/7/365, raising and lowering the desk with heavy equipment throughout the day, according to third-party testing and BIFMA certification

Custom Lighting Controls

• Surface-mounted task lights over the monitor and/or keyboard to find items in the dim room
• Adjustable direction and intensity of task lights to suit user needs and preferences
• Bias lighting to provide the ambient lighting that improves reading conditions without causing eyestrain
• Colored lights on acrylic panels that impact circadian rhythms to improve health, morale and productivity
• Ability to save all light, color and intensity settings in scenes to activate with one touch

Custom Climate Controls

• Custom heating/cooling controls to reduce the discomfort and time involved in adjusting temperature
• Personal heater to keep hands warm and reduce the chance of errors
• Personal cooling fan to prevent the stress of being too hot
• Save heating and cooling settings in scenes to quickly change the temperature at shift change and throughout the day

Customization Convenience

•  The AXYS system allows you to adjust the lighting, climate, and surface heights of your desk via your computer, tablet, or phone.
• The AXYS system allows you to save your favorite combinations settings for quick and easy recall. 

Healthy Desktop

• 3D laminate desktop that is durable, attractive and easy-to-clean
• Seamless desk edge prevents scratches, snags and unsanitary crumbs
• GREENGUARD Gold certification to promote healthy air
• Built-in cupholder option to keep caffeine and smoothies handy and spills at bay

Space Planning

• Free layout and design services from a degreed and experienced interior designer
• Space planned to meet ADA, electrical and fire codes while accommodating all the imaging desks, filing cabinets, printers, etc., needed
• Custom layout to enhance workflow and collaboration while providing privacy and noise reduction
• Assistance with color, carpet, paint and finish selections
  

Follow Through

• High-quality, made-in-the-USA construction
• Strong warranty that covers parts and labor
• Experienced installation team capable of everything from new construction to live cutover
• Dedicated customer service team that understands the urgent needs in imaging and healthcare

Want a print-friendly version of this list? We have one available for you right here!

As further evidence that imaging desks and design matter, check out this research study from the University of Maryland Medical Center. The study, focused on the ergonomics of digital reading rooms and diagnostic workstation configurations, emphasized that “Inadequate ergonomics stresses the body by forcing it into awkward postures or repeated movements, leading to discomfort, fatigue, pain and, over time, musculoskeletal disorders.” The study went on to recommend “ergonomically designed furniture and ergonomically friendly work habits” as two of the lowest-cost ways to combat these issues.

To learn more about Xybix radiology imaging desks, reach out anytime.