This master’s thesis explores how Interface Design can support a new approach to alarm configuration in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), aiming to reduce alarm overload. Alarm Fatigue, a phenomenon caused by frequent and non-actionable alarms, poses risks to patient safety. The project is part of the Smart and Silent Intensive Care Unit (SASICU) initiative, a European initiative aimed at addressing Alarm Fatigue. Current alarm systems are not centralised, rely on absolute thresholds, are time-consuming to configure, and therefore lack patient-specific configurations, resulting in an excessive number of clinically irrelevant alarms.

In response, SetWise was developed through an iterative user-centred process: a configuration User Interface enabling nurses to personalise alarm settings in just two main steps. It offers real-time adjustments, contextual shortcuts, and manual fine-tuning. Eight ICU nurses evaluated SetWise, confirming its usability but indicating variation in work styles and preferences. To support adoption, flexible UI design, comprehensive training, and step-by-step implementation are recommended. SetWise represents a tangible step towards a quieter and smarter ICU, encouraging a potential paradigm shift in alarm configuration: moving from micromanagement to patient-specific situational awareness. ... Read more