Designing the nurse workplace station to facilitate usability is an example of which ergonomic domain?

• A. Cognitive
• B. Both Organizational and Physical
• C. Physical
• D. Organizational

Answer: (C)

This question tests physical ergonomics—the fit between the nurse, the workstation, and the surrounding environment. Designing the station to facilitate usability focuses on how the physical layout supports comfortable, efficient movement and access: appropriate chair height, monitor and keyboard placement at eye and arm level, reachable storage, and adequate space to maneuver. These factors reduce awkward postures, strain, and unnecessary effort, which is the essence of the physical domain.

Cognitive ergonomics would address how information is perceived, processed, and remembered, not the physical setup of the workspace. Organizational ergonomics concerns policies, workflows, staffing, and procedures that shape how work is done. While usability can involve those areas, the act of optimizing a workstation’s layout for physical ease and safety is best described by physical ergonomics.