In the dynamic landscape of modern healthcare, efficiency, adaptability, and seamless access to digital systems are more critical than ever. The increasing reliance on electronic health records (EHRs) and the push for real-time data access have made mobile workstations—commonly known as Workstations on Wheels (WoWs)—an indispensable asset in clinical environments.
However, this wasn’t always the case. Early generations of mobile carts were often heavy, bulky, and ergonomically inadequate. Nurses and clinicians frequently found them difficult to manoeuvre, frustrating to use, and ill-suited to the fast-paced demands of healthcare delivery. Complaints about poor battery life, limited adjustability, and awkward screen configurations were common.
Fortunately, the landscape has evolved. Today’s WoWs are lightweight, highly mobile, and ergonomically designed, with swappable batteries and customisable configurations tailored to a wide range of clinical workflows. As highlighted by Carlson (2019) in a case study published in the Journal of Clinical Engineering, modern WoWs represent a significant leap forward in technology—offering not only improved usability but also safer, smarter, and more dependable functionality at the point of care.
WoWs are more than just mobile computers—they are sophisticated, integrated clinical tools designed to bring essential digital and medical capabilities directly to the patient’s bedside. These mobile units serve as an extension of the clinical workspace, enabling seamless access to EHRs, real-time documentation, medication administration, and communication systems—right at the point of care.
Rather than requiring clinicians to return to fixed desktop terminals, WoWs empower them to perform a wide range of digital tasks during rounds or bedside assessments. Clinicians can input clinical notes, access test results, review care plans, consult diagnostic platforms, and even engage in virtual care—all without leaving the patient’s side. Some models also incorporate secure medication drawers and integrated barcode scanning systems, allowing for safe and efficient medication administration as part of the same workflow.
In addition to improving accessibility, WoWs are strategically designed to support infection control, IT integration, and data security. Many models offer modular customisation to suit different clinical specialties, from emergency departments and ICUs to aged care and outpatient clinics.
A white paper by Humanscale (2013) highlights the critical ergonomic value of mobile technology carts, noting that their proper design reduces the risk of musculoskeletal injuries often associated with repetitive strain or awkward movement. Ergonomically sound WoWs also encourage clinician compliance and satisfaction, which are essential for successful implementation and sustained use. The report further underscores that real-time documentation significantly improves communication between multidisciplinary care teams, reduces the risk of transcription errors, and accelerates decision-making—ultimately supporting faster, safer, and more effective patient care.
Moreover, the strategic role of WoWs extends beyond clinical convenience. They play a vital role in achieving broader digital transformation goals, acting as physical interfaces for electronic medical record (EMR) rollouts and other health IT initiatives. By enabling mobile access to hospital systems, WoWs reduce workflow bottlenecks and promote operational efficiency, allowing healthcare organisations to meet regulatory benchmarks and improve overall care delivery standards.
The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving toward data-driven, decentralised, and patient-centred care models. In this landscape, mobility and real-time digital access are no longer optional—they are essential components of effective and efficient care delivery.
Debetrek is proud to be Australia’s leading provider of point-of-care medical equipment, partnering with healthcare facilities to deliver tailored solutions that align with their specific clinical workflows. Our range of mobile workstation products includes:
Contact Debetrek today to learn how our range of WoWs can help optimise your workflows and enhance patient care. Click here to get in touch.