Musculoskeletal disorders in nursing staff: analysis of the effect of forced postures
Keywords:
ENFERMEDADES MUSCULOESQUELÉTICAS; EQUILIBRIO POSTURAL; ERGONOMÍA; PERSONAL DE ENFERMERÍA.; MUSCULOSKELETAL DISEASES; POSTURAL BALANCE; ERGONOMÍA; NURSING STAFF.; DOENÇAS MUSCULOESQUELÉTICAS; EQUILÍBRIO POSTURAL; ERGONOMIA; RECURSOS HUMANOS DE ENFERMAGEM.Abstract
Introduction: nursing staff are exposed to forced postures during healthcare delivery, which increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders affecting their health and work performance.
Objective: to analyze the effect of forced postures on musculoskeletal health in nursing staff.
Methods: an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with an intentional sample of 50 nursing professionals from Health District 18D04, Tungurahua, identifying ergonomic risks and their relationship with the occurrence of symptoms. The standardized Nordic questionnaire was applied to assess musculoskeletal symptoms in different body regions. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were employed, respecting bioethical principles.
Results: 80 % of respondents reported discomfort in the dorsolumbar region, 76 % in the neck, and 52 % in the shoulders. Most symptoms appeared chronically, lasting months or years, especially in the lower back and neck. In the last 12 months, 90 % reported recurrent dorsolumbar pain associated with repetitive activities, load handling, and accelerated work pace. The most frequent postures were trunk inclination, knee flexion with unbalanced load, and arm elevation above shoulder level.
Conclusions: the findings confirm a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among nursing staff, linked to forced postures and poor ergonomic conditions. Preventive programs, training in postural hygiene, and organizational measures are required to reduce physical overload, improving quality of life and productivity in the healthcare team.
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