Work-related musculoskeletal disorders [WMSD] in hospital nurses: prevalence and coping strategies

ABSTRACT

This study aims to determine the prevalence of WMSDs and coping strategies towards reducing the risk for development of WMSDs. It attempts to identify the magnitude and characteristics of WMSDs and the perceived work-related ergonomic risk factors associated with nursing job responsibilities among hospital nurses. A pre-approved self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 200 nurses in the GMC hospital, Ajman. 147 completed and returned, with 74% response rate. 12 questionnaires were excluded because of incomplete data. Approximately 39% of the nurses have had WMSDs at least once during the working period. The 12-month period and point prevalence rate of WMSDs in any part of body was 38%. WMSDs occurred mostly in low back [29.0%], ankle [20.0%], shoulder [14.8%] and knees [13.3%]. 35.5% treated themselves or had visited other health practitioners for care. Working in awkward and cramped positions [54.1%], working in the same positions for long periods [51.1%] and lifting or transferring dependent patients [41.4%] were the job-related factors most perceived as risks for WMSDs. The top three coping strategies suggested were modifying patient's /nurses position [58.5%], modifying nursing procedures to avoid re-injury [45.9%], and adjusting plinth/bed height to change the posture [45.1%]. The prevalence of WMSDs among hospital nurses was nearly 40%, and over 50% were at risk of developing WMSDs. The low back and the ankle joint were the most common sites of the disorder. Education programs on the prevention and coping strategies for WMSDs are recommended for the nurses in order to promote efficiency in patient care