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Karaibrahimoglu A, İnce F, Hassanzadeh G, Alizadeh A, Bagheri K, Yucel I, Shariat A. Ethical considerations in telehealth and artificial intelligence for work related musculoskeletal disorders: A scoping review. Work 2024:WOR240187. [PMID: 39093108 DOI: 10.3233/wor-240187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. The integration of AI and telehealth applications in healthcare raises ethical concerns such as bias, transparency, data privacy, and accountability for errors. Several studies have assessed this topic, particularly with regard to musculoskeletal disorders, which will be the focus of this manuscript. OBJECTIVE We will examine key ethical concepts including informed consent, data protection, confidentiality, physician malpractice, liability, and telemedicine regulations. METHODS Ethical issues pertaining to the topic were explored through a review paper. The primary objective of this scoping review was to map and synthesize the existing literature concerning ethical considerations in telehealth and AI for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. RESULTS Research demonstrates that medication effectiveness, patient and physician satisfaction, and accessibility costs are higher with telemedicine and AI methods compared to in-person approaches, particularly for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, addressing ethical issues, including patient data privacy and security, is crucial in this field. By considering these factors, the adoption of emerging AI and telemedicine applications, especially for work-related musculoskeletal disorders, is likely to increase. CONCLUSION AI and telemedicine offer significant advantages, particularly in addressing work-related musculoskeletal disorders. However, ethical and legal issues surrounding their practice require standardized rules to ensure equitable access, quality care, sustainable costs, professional liability, patient privacy, data protection, and confidentiality. Further practical research studies are needed to address these considerations more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan Karaibrahimoglu
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkiye
| | - Fuat İnce
- Department of History of Medicine and Ethics, Faculty of Medicine, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkiye
| | - Gholamreza Hassanzadeh
- Department of Digital Health, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Alizadeh
- Department of Digital Health, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kian Bagheri
- Department of Medicine, Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lillington, NC, USA
| | - Irem Yucel
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkiye
| | - Ardalan Shariat
- Department of Digital Health, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Posluszny KM, Ho DC, Veerasammy S, Taylor C, McDougall R, Fischer SL. A mixed methods approach to describe the efficacy of lift assist device use to reduce low back musculoskeletal disorder risk factors during three common patient extrication scenarios. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2024; 121:104361. [PMID: 39067283 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2024.104361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
This mixed-method study evaluated the efficacy of lift assist device use (Binder®, Eagle®, Maxi Air®) relative to manual lifting/care-as-usual in reducing low back muscle activity and perceived exertion during simulated patient extrication tasks. User feedback was recorded to identify factors that might influence use. Twenty paramedics performed a floor to stretcher lift, lateral transfer, and confined space extrication care-as-usual and with lift assist devices. Use of a lift assist reduced low back muscle activity during floor to stretcher and confined space tasks by 34-47%. Paramedics perceived exertion decreased from 'somewhat hard' to 'light' or 'very light' when using an assistive device. Paramedics noted that ease of use, patient comfort, task time, patient acuity, among other considerations would influence use decisions. Lift assist devices were efficacious at reducing low back muscle activity and perceived exertion during floor to stretcher and patient extrication tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate M Posluszny
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Daphne C Ho
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Sanjay Veerasammy
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Cindi Taylor
- Niagara Emergency Medical Services, Niagara Falls, Canada
| | | | - Steven L Fischer
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada.
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Castro LSR, Nogueira DSS, Fu C, Casarotto RA. Work-related musculoskeletal complaints of physiotherapists working in intensive care units: Frequency analysis, risk factors, management and prevention strategies. Work 2024:WOR230422. [PMID: 39031421 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intensive care physiotherapists are exposed to situations that may cause physical and mental overload, which can lead to the onset of work-related musculoskeletal complaints. OBJECTIVE The objective was to analyze these complaints and to identify activities causing greater overload, factors associated with complaints, and management and prevention strategies. METHODS Cross-sectional study. Data were collected from 125 physiotherapists in the Intensive Care units (ICU) of a tertiary hospital. The questionnaire used was formulated from questionnaires validated in the literature such as Nordic Questionnaire and Bork Questionnaire. Chi-square test was performed to compare the groups with and without complaints. Logistic regression was used to assess the association effects of the variables on the presence of complaints. RESULTS Of those interviewed, 76% had a work-related complaint in the last year, with the "lower back" being the most affected region. Eighty percent had complaints for more than one site. "Transfer" was considered the activity causing the greatest overload. Female sex (p = 0.023), lack of physical activity (p = 0.028), inadequate ventilation (p = 0.001) and inadequate furniture (p = 0.006) showed a statistically significant association effect with the presence of complaints. Inadequate ventilation (p = 0.003) and female sex (p = 0.004) influenced the number of affected areas. Physical activity was considered the main strategy for prevention. CONCLUSION Musculoskeletal complaints accounted for a high percentage of the analyzed sample, mainly in the lower back. The extent of complaints suggests that strategies should be developed and changes in work dynamics should be carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia S R Castro
- Department of Physiotherapy, Communication Sciences and Disorders and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Débora S S Nogueira
- Department of Physiotherapy, Communication Sciences and Disorders and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina Fu
- Department of Physiotherapy, Communication Sciences and Disorders and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raquel A Casarotto
- Department of Physiotherapy, Communication Sciences and Disorders and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Kong PW, Kan TYW, Bin Mohamed Jamil RAG, Teo WP, Pan JW, Hafiz Abd Halim N, Kuddoos Abu Bakar Maricar H, Hostler D. Low back pain and biomechanical characteristics of back muscles in firefighters. ERGONOMICS 2024; 67:650-659. [PMID: 37459607 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2236821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters often experience low back pain (LBP), but their back muscle characteristics are not well studied. This study aimed to 1) compare the biomechanical characteristics of back muscles and self-reported back disabilities in frontline firefighters with and without LBP history, and 2) examine the relationships between back disability and biomechanical measurements. We recruited 42 male firefighters and assessed their perceived pain and disabilities, maximum isometric back extension strength, passive stiffness, and fatigability of the longissimus. 54.8% of the participants experienced LBP within the past year. Those indicating higher pain intensity also had greater disability as indicated by the Oswestry Disability Index. There were no significant differences in strength, stiffness or fatigability of the back muscles between firefighters with and without LBP history. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed no significant relationship between the back disability and any biomechanical or demographic measures, likely due to the high functional abilities of the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pui W Kong
- Physical Education and Sports Science Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Tommy Y W Kan
- Physical Education and Sports Science Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | | | - Wei P Teo
- Physical Education and Sports Science Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Jing W Pan
- Physical Education and Sports Science Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Noor Hafiz Abd Halim
- Responder Performance Centre, Civil Defence Academy, Singapore Civil Defence Force, Singapore
| | | | - David Hostler
- Center for Research and Education in Special Environments, Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, USA
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Nazzal MS, Oteir AO, Alrawashdeh A, Alwidyan MT, Obiedat Q, Almhdawi KA, Ismael NT, Williams B. Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors affecting emergency medical services professionals in Jordan: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078601. [PMID: 38631837 PMCID: PMC11029251 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Emergency medical services (EMSs) personnel are at high risk for developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, no studies have yet investigated the prevalence and effect of these disorders on the Jordanian EMS personnel. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs among Jordanian EMS personnel and its associated factors. DESIGN This study used a cross-sectional design. Participants were asked to complete a self-administrated and validated questionnaire to measure the WMSDs, including a demographic survey and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Descriptive and multivariable regression analyses were used. SETTING The Jordanian Civil Defence stations in the main cities of Jordan. PARTICIPANTS The sample consisted of 435 EMS workers which were obtained across the country of Jordan. A total of 79.0% of the participants were male, with a mean age of 27.9 (±4.3 SD) years. RESULTS The pain in the lower back (308, 70.8%) and neck (252, 57.9%) were the most reported in the last 12 months. Furthermore, about half of the participants reported having pain in their upper back (234, 53.8%), knee (227, 52.2%) and shoulder (226, 52.0%) pain in the last 12 months. Overall, WMSDs in at least one body part were significantly associated with age, experience, being a male, increased body mass index and lower educational level. CONCLUSIONS There is a high prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints among EMS personnel. Multiple variables may be incorporated into a national prevention campaign and professional development programme to educate EMS personnel on avoiding WMSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Nazzal
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Alaa O Oteir
- Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Alrawashdeh
- Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mahmoud T Alwidyan
- Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Qussai Obiedat
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Khader A Almhdawi
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Noor T Ismael
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Brett Williams
- Department of Paramedicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Tahernejad S, Farahi-Ashtiani I, Veisani Y, Ghaffari S, Sahebi A, Makki F. A systematic review and meta-analysis of musculoskeletal disorders among firefighters. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2024; 88:374-381. [PMID: 38485380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Due to the nature of their job, firefighters face many ergonomic risk factors and are exposed to several musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the prevalence of MSDs among firefighters. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was conducted based on preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The literature search was conducted in the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, SID, ISC and Google Scholar without applying a time limitation until the end of July 2022. The random effects model was used for meta-analysis, and the I2 index was used to check heterogeneity among studies. The data were analyzed using STATA version 14 software. RESULTS The primary literature searches in the databases identified 1,291 articles, 26 of which were entered the meta-analysis stage after screening, study selection, and quality assessment, including 36,342 firefighters. Based on the results of a meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of MSDs among firefighters was 46.39% (95% CI: 32.45-60.32, I2 = 99.7%, P < 0.001). The prevalence of MSDs was also investigated at neck (18.36%), low back (34.32%), shoulder (18.68%), hands (7.43%), upper back (10.15%), knee (19.97%) and foot (6.66%). CONCLUSION Considering the relatively high prevalence of MSDs among firefighters and their higher exposition to specific job-related risk factors of MSDs compared to other professions, it is suggested to provide firefighters with appropriate training, implement ergonomic interventions, and regularly screen them to reduce MSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Tahernejad
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering and Safety at Work, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Iman Farahi-Ashtiani
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yousef Veisani
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Sina Ghaffari
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering and Safety at Work, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Sahebi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Department of Medical Emergencies and Health in Disasters and Emergencies, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.
| | - Faezeh Makki
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering and Safety at Work, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Bryndal A, Glowinski S, Hebel K, Grochulska J, Grochulska A. The Prevalence of Neck and Back Pain among Paramedics in Poland. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7060. [PMID: 38002673 PMCID: PMC10672622 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12227060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Neck Pain (NP) and low back pain (LBP) are ubiquitous musculoskeletal conditions and some of the major causes of disability worldwide. The aim of the study was to assess the incidence and risk factors of back pain among paramedics and their correlation with the nature of work, anthropometric features and the level of recreational physical activity. A group of 201 individuals (39 females (19.40%); 162 males (80.60%)), licensed to practice as paramedics in Poland completed a questionnaire containing the author's interview as well as the Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaire and the Revised Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Among the examined paramedics, 92% of the subjects reported the presence of back pain in different parts of the spine (36% C; 17% Th; and 85% LBP). The pain intensity, determined by VAS, was on average 4.26 (SD 1.77). The level of disability, assessed by NDI, was 7.67 (SD 5.73) on average, while the ODI was 7.51 (5.90). Work-related spinal strain has a major impact on the intensity and incidence of spinal pain. Spinal pain in paramedics mainly occurs in the lower back.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Bryndal
- Institute of Health Sciences, Pomeranian University in Slupsk, Westerplatte 64, 76-200 Slupsk, Poland; (S.G.); (K.H.); (A.G.)
- Institute of Physical Culture and Health, State Higher School of Vocational Education in Koszalin, Leśna 1, 75-582 Koszalin, Poland
| | - Sebastian Glowinski
- Institute of Health Sciences, Pomeranian University in Slupsk, Westerplatte 64, 76-200 Slupsk, Poland; (S.G.); (K.H.); (A.G.)
- Institute of Physical Culture and Health, State Higher School of Vocational Education in Koszalin, Leśna 1, 75-582 Koszalin, Poland
| | - Kazimiera Hebel
- Institute of Health Sciences, Pomeranian University in Slupsk, Westerplatte 64, 76-200 Slupsk, Poland; (S.G.); (K.H.); (A.G.)
| | - Julia Grochulska
- Medical Department, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Fredry 10, 61-701 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Grochulska
- Institute of Health Sciences, Pomeranian University in Slupsk, Westerplatte 64, 76-200 Slupsk, Poland; (S.G.); (K.H.); (A.G.)
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Powell JR, Cash RE, Kurth JD, Gage CB, Mercer CB, Panchal AR. National examination of occupational hazards in emergency medical services. Occup Environ Med 2023; 80:644-649. [PMID: 37833069 PMCID: PMC10646910 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2023-109053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Emergency medical services (EMS) clinicians operate in environments that predispose them to occupational hazards. Our objective was to evaluate the frequency of occupational hazards and associations with mitigation strategies in a national dataset. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional analysis of currently working, nationally certified civilian EMS clinicians aged 18-85 in the USA. After recertifying their National EMS Certification, respondents were invited to complete a survey with questions regarding demographics, work experience and occupational hazards. Three multivariable logistic regression models (OR, 95% CI) were used to describe associations between these hazards and demographics, work characteristics and mitigation strategies. Models were adjusted for age, sex, minority status, years of experience, EMS agency type, service type and EMS role. RESULTS A total of 13 218 respondents met inclusion criteria (response rate=12%). A high percentage of EMS clinicians reported occupational injuries (27%), exposures (38%) and violence (64%) in the past 12 months. Odds of injury were lower with the presence of a lifting policy (0.73, 0.67-0.80), lift training (0.74, 0.67-0.81) and always using a powered stretcher (0.87, 0.78-0.97). Odds of exposure decreased with chemical, biological and nuclear exposure protection training (0.75, 0.69-0.80). Training in de-escalation techniques was associated with lower odds of experiencing violence (0.87, 0.79-0.96). CONCLUSIONS Occupational hazards are commonly experienced among EMS clinicians. Common mitigation efforts are associated with lower odds of reporting these hazards. Mitigation strategies were not widespread and associated with lower odds of occupational hazards. These findings may present actionable items to reduce occupational hazards for EMS clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R Powell
- Research Department, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, The Ohio State University College of Public Health, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Rebecca E Cash
- Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jordan D Kurth
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christopher B Gage
- Research Department, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, The Ohio State University College of Public Health, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Christopher B Mercer
- Combat Paramedic Program, US Army Medical Center of Excellence, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ashish R Panchal
- Research Department, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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de Miranda CB, Silva-Junior JS, Garcia KKS, de Sousa FNEF, Fischer FM. Vocational Rehabilitation and Length of Stay at Work after Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Longitudinal Study in Brazil. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2334. [PMID: 36767703 PMCID: PMC9915422 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Vocational rehabilitation is an intervention to enhance the return to work and improve quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate sociodemographic and occupational factors associated with the length of stay at work among workers with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) who had undergone rehabilitation through the Brazilian public social security system. This was a longitudinal study among 680 workers with histories of disability due to WRMDs who returned to the formal job market after vocational rehabilitation between 2014 and 2018. Survival analysis was performed to identify the factors influencing permanence in work. Job dismissal occurred for 29.26% of the workers. The average duration of employment after returning to the formal job position was 56 months. The following factors were associated with shorter length of employment: living in the southeastern region (HR: 2.78; 95% CI 1.12-6.91) or southern region (HR: 2.68; 95% CI 1.04-6.90) of Brazil; working in transportation, storage or postal services (HR: 2.57; 95% CI 1.07-6.17); or working in financial activities, insurance or related services (HR: 2.70; 95% CI 1.05-6.89). These findings may contribute to the discussion about prevention of disability and interventions to ensure health care for workers with WRMD disabilities who undergo rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Barreto de Miranda
- Department of Environmental Health and Graduate Program in Public Health, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo (FSP-USP), São Paulo 01246-904, Brazil
| | - João Silvestre Silva-Junior
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Bioethics, Occupational Medicine and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of São Palo Medicine School (FMUSP), São Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Klauss Kleydmann Sabino Garcia
- General Coordinator of Occupational Health, Ministry of Health, Graduate Program in Tropical Medicine, University of Brasília (UnB), Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Flávia Nogueira e Ferreira de Sousa
- General Coordinator of Occupational Health, Ministry of Health, Graduate Program in Tropical Medicine, University of Brasília (UnB), Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Frida Marina Fischer
- Department of Environmental Health and Graduate Program in Public Health, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo (FSP-USP), São Paulo 01246-904, Brazil
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10
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Rückenbeanspruchung beim Heben und Tragen im Rettungsdienst: eine Umfrage. Notf Rett Med 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10049-022-01109-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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11
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Hanumegowda PK, Gnanasekaran S. Prediction of Work-Related Risk Factors among Bus Drivers Using Machine Learning. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15179. [PMID: 36429898 PMCID: PMC9690356 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
A recent development in ergonomics research is using machine learning techniques for risk assessment and injury prevention. Bus drivers are more likely than other workers to suffer musculoskeletal diseases because of the nature of their jobs and their working conditions (WMSDs). The basic idea of this study is to forecast important work-related risk variables linked to WMSDs in bus drivers using machine learning approaches. A total of 400 full-time male bus drivers from the east and west zone depots of Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), which is based in Bengaluru, south India, took part in this study. In total, 92.5% of participants responded to the questionnaire. The Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to gather data on symptoms of WMSD during the past 12 months (MNMQ). Machine learning techniques including decision tree, random forest, and naïve Bayes were used to forecast the important risk factors related to WMSDs. It was discovered that WMSDs and work-related characteristics were statistically significant. In total, 66.75% of subjects reported having WMSDs. Various classifiers were used to derive the simulation results for the frequency of pain in the musculoskeletal systems throughout the last 12 months with the important risk variables. With 100% accuracy, decision tree and random forest algorithms produce the same results. Naïve Bayes yields 93.28% accuracy. In this study, through a questionnaire survey and data analysis, several health and work-related risk factors were identified among the bus drivers. Risk factors such as involvement in physical activities, frequent posture change, exposure to vibration, egress ingress, on-duty breaks, and seat adaptability issues have the highest influence on the frequency of pain due to WMSDs among bus drivers. From this study, it is recommended that drivers get involved in physical activities, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and maintain proper posture while driving. For any transport organization/company, it is recommended to design driver cabins ergonomically to mitigate the WMSDs among bus drivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sakthivel Gnanasekaran
- Centre for Automation, School of Mechanical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai 600127, India
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12
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Rojas R, Hickmann M, Wolf S, Kolassa IT, Behnke A. Coping in the Emergency Medical Services: Associations With the Personnel's Stress, Self-Efficacy, Job Satisfaction, and Health. CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY IN EUROPE 2022; 4:e6133. [PMID: 36397746 PMCID: PMC9667341 DOI: 10.32872/cpe.6133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Emergency Medical Services personnel (EMSP) are recurrently exposed to chronic and traumatic stressors in their occupation. Effective coping with occupational stressors plays a key role in enabling their health and overall well-being. In this study, we examined the habitual use of coping strategies in EMSP and analyzed associations of coping with the personnel's health and well-being. Method A total of N = 106 German Red Cross EMSP participated in a cross-sectional survey involving standardized questionnaires to report habitual use of different coping strategies (using the Brief-COPE), their work-related stress, work-related self-efficacy, job satisfaction, as well as mental and physical stress symptoms. Results A confirmatory factor analysis corroborated seven coping factors which have been identified in a previous study among Italian emergency workers. Correlation analyses indicated the coping factor "self-criticism" is associated with more work-related stress, lower job satisfaction, and higher depressive, posttraumatic, and physical stress symptoms. Although commonly viewed as adaptive coping, the coping factors "support/venting", "active coping/planning", "humor", "religion", and "positive reappraisal" were not related to health and well-being in EMSP. Exploratory correlation analyses suggested that only "acceptance" was linked to better well-being and self-efficacy in EMSP. Conclusion Our results emphasize the need for in-depth investigation of adaptive coping in EMSP to advance occupation-specific prevention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Rojas
- University
Psychotherapeutic Outpatient Clinic, Institute of Psychology and
Education, Ulm University,
Ulm, Germany
| | - Maxi Hickmann
- University
Psychotherapeutic Outpatient Clinic, Institute of Psychology and
Education, Ulm University,
Ulm, Germany
| | - Svenja Wolf
- University
Psychotherapeutic Outpatient Clinic, Institute of Psychology and
Education, Ulm University,
Ulm, Germany
| | - Iris-Tatjana Kolassa
- Clinical and
Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education,
Ulm University,
Ulm, Germany
| | - Alexander Behnke
- Clinical and
Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education,
Ulm University,
Ulm, Germany
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Machine Learning Model to Estimate Net Joint Moments during Lifting Task Using Wearable Sensors: A Preliminary Study for Design of Exoskeleton Control System. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app112411735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Accurately measuring the lower extremities and L5/S1 moments is important since L5/S1 moments are the principal parameters that measure the risk of musculoskeletal diseases during lifting. In this study, protocol that predicts lower extremities and L5/S1 moments with an insole sensor was proposed to replace the prior methods that have spatial constraints. The protocol is hierarchically composed of a classification model and a regression model to predict joint moments. Additionally, a single LSTM model was developed to compare with proposed protocol. To optimize hyperparameters of the machine learning model and input feature, Bayesian optimization method was adopted. As a result, the proposed protocol showed a relative root mean square error (rRMSE) of 8.06~13.88% while the single LSTM showed 9.30~18.66% rRMSE. This protocol in this research is expected to be a starting point for developing a system for estimating the lower extremity and L5/S1 moment during lifting that can replace the complex prior method and adopted to workplace environments. This novel study has the potential to precisely design a feedback iterative control system of an exoskeleton for the appropriate generation of an actuator torque.
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Asghar ZB, Wankhade P, Bell F, Sanderson K, Hird K, Phung VH, Siriwardena AN. Trends, variations and prediction of staff sickness absence rates among NHS ambulance services in England: a time series study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e053885. [PMID: 34588266 PMCID: PMC8483034 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our aim was to measure ambulance sickness absence rates over time, comparing ambulance services and investigate the predictability of rates for future forecasting. SETTING All English ambulance services, UK. DESIGN We used a time series design analysing published monthly National Health Service staff sickness rates by gender, age, job role and region, comparing the 10 regional ambulance services in England between 2009 and 2018. Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and Seasonal ARIMA (SARIMA) models were developed using Stata V.14.2 and trends displayed graphically. PARTICIPANTS Individual participant data were not available. The total number of full-time equivalent (FTE) days lost due to sickness absence (including non-working days) and total number of days available for work for each staff group and level were available. In line with The Data Protection Act, if the organisation had less than 330 FTE days available during the study period it was censored for analysis. RESULTS A total of 1117 months of sickness absence rate data for all English ambulance services were included in the analysis. We found considerable variation in annual sickness absence rates between ambulance services and over the 10-year duration of the study in England. Across all the ambulance services the median days available were 1 336 888 with IQR of 548 796 and 73 346 median days lost due to sickness absence, with IQR of 30 551 days. Among clinical staff sickness absence varied seasonally with peaks in winter and falls over summer. The winter increases in sickness absence were largely predictable using seasonally adjusted (SARIMA) time series models. CONCLUSION Sickness rates for clinical staff were found to vary considerably over time and by ambulance trust. Statistical models had sufficient predictive capability to help forecast sickness absence, enabling services to plan human resources more effectively at times of increased demand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahid B Asghar
- Community and Health Research Unit, Lincoln Medical School, School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln-Brayford Campus, Lincoln, UK
| | - Paresh Wankhade
- Business School, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, Liverpool, UK
| | - Fiona Bell
- Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Wakefield, UK
| | - Kristy Sanderson
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Kelly Hird
- Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Wakefield, UK
| | - Viet-Hai Phung
- Community and Health Research Unit, Lincoln Medical School, School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln-Brayford Campus, Lincoln, UK
| | - Aloysius Niroshan Siriwardena
- Community and Health Research Unit, Lincoln Medical School, School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln-Brayford Campus, Lincoln, UK
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