Usability in Medical Systems: A Case Study on Redesigning Graphical User Interfaces for Intensive Care Units in a Public Hospital in Peru Using User-Centered Design

Usability is a key part of software quality, as it affects how easy a system is to understand, learn, and use. In recent years, technology has become more integrated into different areas, including healthcare, where digital tools help with important tasks like patient care. These tools have improved daily work, reduced the time needed for training, and helped medical staff be more productive and satisfied. But even with these benefits, several studies have shown that many medical systems still have usability problems. These issues can make it harder to understand information, slow down patient care, and affect medical decisions. In the worst cases, they could even put patient safety at risk. This study looks at a public hospital in Peru where the system used in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) shows clear usability problems, especially in its user interfaces. These problems show the need for a redesign that better fits the real needs and work context of healthcare professionals. To understand the situation better, a review of similar cases around the world was carried out. This helped identify common usability challenges, design decisions, and methods used—especially those based on the User-Centered Design (UCD) framework. Using this information, the study followed the UCD framework to involve real users throughout the redesign process and improve their experience with the system. Techniques such as interviews, User Personas, Journey Maps, and Empathy Maps were used to understand the context of use and define user requirements. High-fidelity prototypes were created and subjected to heuristic usability evaluations in the project’s final phase. Iterative cycles within the UCD framework continued until the required usability standards were met.