Effect of Multitasking on Cognitive Functions, Performance, and Bio-Signals in First Responders

Multitasking game does not only impact different cognitive functions but also influences performance and vital signs. This affirmation is key for supporting and monitoring first responders during real-life rescue scenarios, with the aim of improving mission performance and reducing risks for both victims and rescuers. In this manuscript we have developed a game that combines a primary sustained attention task with secondary tasks that target different cognitive functions (focused attention, working memory and short-term memory). 30 first responders participated in the study, completing 18 trials with varying primary and secondary tasks complexities. The results show that concurrent multitasking significantly impacts both primary and secondary task performance, with a clear shift of attention towards the secondary task. Moreover, the performance impact varies depending on the cognitive functions involved. Physiological data show minimal changes during multitasking, but significant changes are observed when task performance is not properly managed. Therefore, the study provides valuable insights into the complexities of multitasking, highlighting the importance of considering both cognitive functions and objective physiological measures for a comprehensive understanding of cognitive demands in real-world operations.