Factors Associated with Ergonomic Injuries in a Tertiary Health Facility in Port Harcourt; South South Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Background:Injuries to the musculoskeletal system at work place are called ergonomic injuries. Its rising incidence is a concern. Aim: The increasing complaint of musculoskeletal injuries amongst surgeons in our hospital necessitated this study. Methods: A structured questionnaire randomly distributed amongst 50 surgeons in the various subspecialties in the month of November was analyzed for ergonomic injuries. Results: The mean age of the surgeons was 37.9 +7.6 years. Their mean height was 1.6 +0.08m. Their mean weight was 78.9 +11.6kg. The mean hours of surgery done per week were 8.52 +4.07hours. The frequency distribution for age and hours of surgery per week were not normally distributed. Conclusion: Information on Ergonomics including causes and prevention are essential tools to surgeons. Provision of safer working environment by employers and immediate medical attention to the injured will go a long way to improving workers health