Design and Product Development

A Pilot Study on Enhancing Isolation Gown Design Through Range of Motion Analysis and User-Centered Insights

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Abstract

Personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly isolation gowns, serves as a critical barrier against pathogens in healthcare settings. Isolation gowns, the second most used PPE in healthcare, often lack design considerations for natural body movements, leading to physical strain and prolonged donning/doffing times. This study addresses this gap by analyzing how design elements, such as closure, sleeve construction, and tie placement, affect wearers’ biomechanical performance and subjective comfort. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative ROM analyses, timed donning/doffing trials, and qualitative exit interviews. Four gown designs were tested, varying in closure types and sleeve details. Fourteen college students, staff, and faculty participated, simulating clinical movements in a controlled lab environment. Results showed that gown design affected both mobility and usability. Gowns with simplified closures generally allowed greater ROM and reduced donning and doffing time, while traditional back-tie designs were associated with longer donning times and user-reported difficulties. 

Keywords: Isolation Gowns, Movement Comfort, Range of Motion, Donning and Doffing

How to Cite:

Chae, H., Li, J., Zhang, M., Li, R., Eike, R. J. & Song, G., (2025) “A Pilot Study on Enhancing Isolation Gown Design Through Range of Motion Analysis and User-Centered Insights”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.22025