Real time fatigue assessment: Identification and continuous tracing of fatigue using a physiological assessment algorithm

Abstract

Fatigue decreases performance and physical strength causing incidents and accidents in operational settings. An algorithm has been developed for the management of fatigue, in which assessment of monitored physiological parameters determines different categories of alert alarms with the aim of advising timely interventions and preventing further physical impairments. In this study, the performance of the algorithm was retrospectively evaluated within laboratory trials. Five soldier participants were referred for assessment and, outcomes demonstrated that the algorithm evidenced the different stages of training and the resulting physical demands on subjects by means of their physiological response throughout the exercises. It is concluded that the developed tool, with further adjustments, has the potential to improve fatigue management, allowing early detection of potential physical impairments, reducing the number of medical evaluations and minimizing unnecessary delays in treatment.