PubMed · 8888849
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M P Johnston. 1996. Computer eye-strain.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8888849/
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Unpleasant somatic and perceptual side effects can be induced when viewing striped repetitive patterns, such as a square wave or a page of text. This sensitivity is greater in participants with higher scores on a scale of visual discomfort. In three experiments the effect that this sensitivity has on performance efficiency in a reading-like visual search task was investigated. In experiments 1 and 2, the 'global' structure of the patterns was manipulated to produce a square-wave, a checkerboard, and a plaid pattern. It was found that the group that suffered severe visual discomfort took significantly longer than other groups to perform the task, with interference greatest with presentation of the square-wave-like pattern. This supports the prediction of greatest distraction of visual attention from the local target elements with presentation of the pattern structure inducing greatest visual discomfort. In experiment 3, the internal pattern components were manipulated and task difficulty reduced. A no-interference and two interference patterns, one with a global characteristic only and the second made up of distracting line elements, containing global and local components were used. The global pattern structure produced interference effects on the visual-search task. All groups performed with the same speed and accuracy on the task involving the no-interference pattern, a finding attributed to reduced task difficulty. McConkie and Zola's model of visual attention was used to explain these results.
Estimates of the prevalence of eye problems associated with using visual display terminals (VDTs) vary enormously depending on the sample tested and the research methods employed. However, most authors agree that eye problems are common among VDT users. In this paper, the relative contributions of the nature of VDT displays, workstation design, work-practices and optometric factors are discussed, drawing from the substantial body of literature which now exists on this subject.
Occupational health hazards in ultrasonography are becoming more prevalent as the field continues to grow. Eye strain, musculoskeletal pain or injury, carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive strain injuries, stress, burnout, and other hazards have been addressed as concerns in other studies and surveys. These topics are discussed, as well as the possible preventive measures that may be used to maximize and maintain the ultrasonographer's well-being throughout his or her career.