1
|
Hochhauser M, Liberman E. Health status and ergonomics education: A comparison between student nurses and first-year nursing staff. Nurs Open 2024; 11:e2239. [PMID: 38988218 PMCID: PMC11237340 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.2239] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS To (a) compare student nurses' health status and levels of ergonomics knowledge and awareness to those of first-year nursing staff and (b) investigate the association between nurses' ergonomic compliance and health status with their educational preparedness. DESIGN This cohort study compared ergonomics awareness and knowledge, and health status of nurses when they were students and after their first-year working in medical facilities. METHODS In total, 133 4th-year student nurses completed a survey; 45 of them completed a second survey after working 1 year in a medical facility. Their health status was compared over time using repeated-measures ANOVA. Correlation tests were used to analyse associations between ergonomics knowledge and awareness, health status, demographic variables and educational preparedness. RESULTS Respondents in both surveys displayed weak knowledge of ergonomic principles significantly associated with increased pain intensity and educational preparedness. PATIENT CONTRIBUTION Ergonomics training should be expanded during nursing studies and first-year training to prevent long-term health disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elena Liberman
- Maccabi Health Services - Nursing Clinic, Lev Ha'ir Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Harrity R, Semakula R, Dehom S, D’Errico E, Roberts L. Preserving the Bedside Nurse: Grip Strength and Orthopedic Problems Among Nurses and Nursing Students. Workplace Health Saf 2022; 71:276-281. [DOI: 10.1177/21650799221135591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Bedside nurses and nursing students are at increased risk of musculoskeletal injury due to the physicality and complexity of their work. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between grip strength and orthopedic injuries or pain among nurses and nursing students. Methods: A cross-sectional study of nursing staff and nursing students at a health sciences university was conducted. The survey consisted of work-related demographics, exercise habits, and validated scales. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to collect information on musculoskeletal problems. Anthropomorphic measures included height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and grip strength. Logistic regression was performed. Findings: Participants with grip strength at or above the national average had significantly lower odds of self-reported orthopedic problems, B = 0.86, OR = 2.35, p =.01, indicating participants with grip strength at or above national average were 135% less likely to report orthopedic problems compared to participants with grip strength below the national average. Conclusion/Application to Practice: Healthcare workers in direct patient care who have lower grip strength may be at increased risk for injuries. Nursing staff and students with below average grip strength were more likely to experience orthopedic problems. Increased muscle mass and grip strength are known to effectively reduce the risk of upper extremity injuries. Nurse leaders may benefit from promoting grip strengthening activities among employees to prevent workplace injuries. Further research is needed to understand the biophysiological mechanisms, confirm the findings of this study and evaluate effective interventions.
Collapse
|
3
|
AlOmar RS. Levels of Physical Activity and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Physicians in Saudi Arabia Post COVID-19 Lockdown: An Epidemiological Cross-Sectional Analysis. J Prim Care Community Health 2021; 12:21501327211040359. [PMID: 34409895 PMCID: PMC8381404 DOI: 10.1177/21501327211040359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common worldwide. Recommendations to
reduce discomfort often commence with increasing physical activity levels.
In Saudi Arabia, levels of physical activity prior to the COVID-19 pandemic
were low. This cross-sectional study aims at estimating the prevalence of
MSDs among Saudi physicians, as well as determining the pattern and level of
physical activity post lockdown and examining their association. Methods: Physical activity levels were assessed via the International Physical
Activity Questionnaire and MSDs were assessed via the Nordic Musculoskeletal
Questionnaire. Chi-squared tests with significance levels of <.05 were
performed to explore bivariate associations. Unadjusted and adjusted odds
ratios (ORs) along with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were given by
binary logistic regression analyses. Results: A total of 3492 physicians participated in this study, and over half of them
(63.55%) reported low physical activity. Risk of MSDs increased with aging
and with increasing BMI (P for trend <.05). Females were
more likely to report MSDs (OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.07-1.86), as well as
physicians with a chronic condition (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.24-1.37) and
those who work in shifts (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.03-1.37). Moderate activity
conferred a non-significant protective effect (OR = 0.95, 95%
CI = 0.79-1.13), whilst high physical activity had a non-significant
increased risk of MSDs in this population. Conclusion: Physical activity in this population is astonishingly low, while prevalence
of MSDs is relatively high. Significant factors include age, sex, shift
work, and the presence of chronic conditions. Current results warrant the
consideration of preventive measures for physicians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reem S AlOmar
- Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Khajehnasiri F, Foroushani AR, Kashani BF, Kassiri N. Evaluation of the quality of working life and its effective factors in employed nurses of Tehran University of Medical Sciences Hospitals. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2021; 10:112. [PMID: 34084859 PMCID: PMC8150076 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_790_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quality of working life (QWL) refers to aspects of life quality, which are related to work settings. This study was designed to evaluate the QWL and its effective factors among nurses of Tehran University of Medical Sciences Hospitals. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study, the demographic questionnaire and work-related quality of life questionnaire were used to collect data among 435 nurses working in hospitals, affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences. This article has been adapted from the approved project of Medical Ethics Committee of Tehran University of Medical Sciences (with the identification code 8911215132). RESULTS The average QWL of nurses in the study was 50.56. There was a significant statistical relationship between gender, frequency of overtime, and working ward with QWL (P < 0.05). In a multivariate analysis, working ward had the only meaningful relationship. CONCLUSION Due to low QWL of nurses in the emergency department, the need of interventions to improve conditions and ultimately to increase QWL of nurses working in the emergency room is being reminded.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farahnaz Khajehnasiri
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Rahimi Foroushani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Forati Kashani
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Kassiri
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Weyh C, Pilat C, Krüger K. Musculoskeletal disorders and level of physical activity in welders. Occup Med (Lond) 2020; 70:586-592. [PMID: 33108469 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqaa169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Welders demonstrate a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), as indicated by high rates of illness-related absenteeism. Leisure time physical activity (LTPA) could be a preventive strategy. However, little is known about LTPA prevalence and its association with MSDs among welders. AIMS The aim of this study was to analyse the prevalence of MSD and LTPA levels among welders and to identify risk factors for the main disorder of low back pain (LBP). METHODS The following data were collected from 145 welders from 34 companies in the German steel industry: individual factors (demographics, health behaviour), job-related factors (welding process, welding hours per day, employment years, shift work, ergonomic tools) and MSD (Nordic questionnaire). LTPA (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) was calculated to determine the metabolic equivalent of task (MET) per week as an objective measure of energy expenditure. Prevalence and multivariate regression analysis were calculated to determine odds ratios (ORs). RESULTS The 12-month prevalence of LBP was 71%, for neck pain 61% and for shoulder pain 55%. Forty-two per cent of the participants accumulated <600 MET/week. The multivariate regression model revealed LTPA <600 MET/week (OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.05-10.85) and neck pain in the previous 12 months (OR 5.2, 95% CI 2.02-13.56) to be significantly associated with LBP. CONCLUSIONS The results show a high prevalence of MSDs and thus a strong requirement for intervention. Therefore, LTPA should be prioritized and employers should encourage access to regular activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Weyh
- Department of Exercise Physiology and Sports Therapy, Justus-Liebig-University, Kugelberg, Giessen, Germany
| | - C Pilat
- Department of Exercise Physiology and Sports Therapy, Justus-Liebig-University, Kugelberg, Giessen, Germany
| | - K Krüger
- Department of Exercise Physiology and Sports Therapy, Justus-Liebig-University, Kugelberg, Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Health, Physical Activity and Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Stone, Sand, and Gravel Mine Workers: Implications for Enhancing and Sustaining Worker Health and Safety. SAFETY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/safety6040052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There is little data delineating relationships between health and worker musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS), particularly among stone, sand, and gravel mine (SSGM) workers. There is also little data detailing the relationships between physical activity and MSS among these workers. A cross-sectional study using data from 459 SSGM workers was completed. Logistic regression analyses assessed relationships between health factors, physical activity, and low back, neck, shoulder, and knee MSS. Those who reported their health as very good/excellent were less likely to suffer low back and knee MSS. Those who indicated their health was poor/fair were more likely to suffer shoulder, neck, and knee MSS. Obese workers were more likely to experience knee MSS and those who smoked in the past had higher odds of neck MSS. Vigorous physical activity was mostly protective, but those performing more than 5 h of moderate physical activity each week had greater odds of shoulder and neck MSS. Given these results, workers in SSGM may benefit from targeted interventions that bolster vigorous physical activity and improve health. Further, health protection efforts need to be initiated by SSGM operations to address work issues and to sustain health as job roles and work hours impacted MSS as well.
Collapse
|
7
|
Analysis of Selected Body Composition Parameters and Ergonomic Safety among Professionally Active Nurses in Poland: A Preliminary Prospective Monocentric and Observational Study. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:9212587. [PMID: 32802884 PMCID: PMC7421039 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9212587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Nurses consist of an occupational group that is particularly exposed to harmful work-related factors such as prolonged working hours, severe stress, fatigue, and excessive strain on the musculoskeletal system. According to nurses, the limitation of the application of ergonomic principles of work may contribute to the occurrence of numerous dangerous behaviors, improper eating habits, or deficiency of systematic physical activity. The most common consequences are nutritional disorders and musculoskeletal system dysfunctions. This prospective observational study was aimed at evaluating selected parameters of the body composition of professionally active nurses and at determining work-related risks during nursing activities. The study group consisted of 37 active nurses (38.38 ± 11.33 years). The research tool was a device for bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). A questionnaire designed by the authors was also implemented, which covered ergonomic principles, musculoskeletal injuries, and nutritional habits. In the present study, it was shown that all average values of the tested nurses' body composition parameters were within the normal range. The majority of respondents (97.3%) reached a high level of body water. A statistically significant correlation was found between the knowledge of the workplace ergonomic principles and body mass index. In conclusion, musculoskeletal pain and lack of implementation of ergonomic behaviors are a significant problem among nurses, which may be the cause of overweight or obesity in this occupational group.
Collapse
|
8
|
Scapellato ML, Comiati V, Buja A, Buttignol G, Valentini R, Burati V, La Serra L, Maccà I, Mason P, Scopa P, Volpin A, Trevisan A, Spinella P. Combined Before-and-After Workplace Intervention to Promote Healthy Lifestyles in Healthcare Workers (STI-VI Study): Short-Term Assessment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15092053. [PMID: 30235849 PMCID: PMC6164287 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15092053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Health care workers (HCWs) are prone to a heavy psycho-physical workload. Health promotion programs can help prevent the onset of chronic and work-related diseases. The aim of the STI-VI ‘before-and-after’ study, with assessments scheduled at 6 and 12 months, was to improve the lifestyle of HCWs with at least one cardiovascular risk factor. A tailored motivational counseling intervention, focusing on dietary habits and physical activity (PA) was administered to 167 HCWs (53 males; 114 females). BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, and cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood glucose levels were measured before and after the intervention. The 6-month results (total sample and by gender) showed a marked effect on lifestyle: PA improved (+121.2 MET, p = 0.01), and diets became more similar to the Mediterranean model (+0.8, p < 0.001). BMI dropped (−0.2, p < 0.03), and waist circumference improved even more (−2.5 cm; p < 0.001). Other variables improved significantly: total and LDL cholesterol (−12.8 and −9.4 mg/dL, p < 0.001); systolic and diastolic blood pressure (−4.4 and −2.5 mmHg, p < 0.001); blood glucose (−1.5 mg/dL, p = 0.05); and triglycerides (significant only in women), (−8.7 mg/dL, p = 0.008); but HDL cholesterol levels dropped too. If consolidated at 12 months, these results indicate that our intervention can help HCWs maintain a healthy lifestyle and work ability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Scapellato
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
- Preventive Medicine and Risk Assessment Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Vera Comiati
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Buja
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Giulia Buttignol
- Preventive Medicine and Risk Assessment Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Romina Valentini
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy.
- Dietetic and Clinical Nutrition Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Valentina Burati
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Lucia La Serra
- Preventive Medicine and Risk Assessment Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Isabella Maccà
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
- Preventive Medicine and Risk Assessment Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Paola Mason
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Pasquale Scopa
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Anna Volpin
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
- Preventive Medicine and Risk Assessment Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Andrea Trevisan
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
- Preventive Medicine and Risk Assessment Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Paolo Spinella
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy.
- Dietetic and Clinical Nutrition Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|