A forcing function in technology design refers to a mechanism that either prevents a certain action from occurring or requires that another action take place first. This concept is crucial in ensuring safety and adherence to protocols, especially in healthcare settings.
Prevention of Errors: Forcing functions are used to design systems that prevent users from making errors. For example, a medication administration system might require that the correct dosage is entered before allowing the process to continue, thereby preventing overdose.
Sequential Actions: In some cases, forcing functions ensure that a specific sequence of actions is followed. For instance, a system may prevent a surgeon from proceeding with surgery until the patient's identity is confirmed, reducing the risk of wrong-patient surgery.
Design Intent: The primary goal of forcing functions is to design technology that inherently prevents errors, reducing the reliance on human memory and vigilance, which can fail under stress or fatigue.
Reference: (Based on Healthcare Quality NAHQ documents and resources) NAHQ Study Guide on Patient Safety and Error Prevention.
Quality Management in Health Care, Chapter on Forcing Functions in System Design.