Evaluation of Graphical Symbols Used in Intensive Care Units (ICU): Comprehension among Users in Different Countries

Introduction: Modern medical devices and their user interfaces apply increasingly more graphical symbols to convey information. Previous researches have indicated some advantages of graphical symbols in conveying information: a) high visual impact to transmit information effectively; b) compact information which occupies less space on products; c) information independent of national languages, etc [1] [2] [3]. The advantages of symbols are becoming more important for global marketing of complex medical devices. However, researches showed that symbols can be differently comprehended among users in different countries [4] [5]. Although standards and technical reports have been issued regarding the application of graphical symbols for use on medical devices (e.g. EN 980:2003 Graphical symbols for use in the labelling of medical devices; IEC 60878:2003 (draft) Graphical symbols for electrical equipment in medical practice; ISO 15223:2000 Medical devices Symbols to be used with medical device labels, labelling, and information to be supplied), few studies have been published regarding evaluating the effectiveness of symbol in different countries. If safety relevant symbols are not correctly understood, use-related risks for the operator or patient may be provoked. These risks should be analysed and controlled according to the requirements of ISO 14971 and EN IEC60601-16, [6] [7].