Ergonomic Assessment and Musculoskeletal Disorders in Nurses at a Social Security Hospital

Abstract

The high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in nursing staff underlines the urgent need for ergonomic research to identify and reduce occupational risk factors. In this cross-sectional study conducted with 22 nurses from a social security hospital, an ergonomic assessment using the REBA and RULA methods was used to analyze the risk associated with work activities. The main objective was to determine the prevalence of MSDs in the upper extremities and their associated risk factors. Although most of the participants had a body composition within normal ranges, the results showed a prevalence of 45.9% of musculoskeletal pain in the upper extremities. Among the most important risk factors were long working hours and static work postures maintained during work. These results show the lack of implementation of adequate ergonomic practices, which accentuates the incidence of MSDs. Therefore, the adoption of ergonomic interventions, such as postural correction and workload reduction, is crucial in order to improve the quality of life of nurses, reduce occupational risks and decrease both the prevalence and impact of MSDs in this population. The implementation of these measures would not only contribute to the reduction of absenteeism, but would also improve the performance and general well-being of nursing staff.