Ergonomic comparison of different incontinence products and effects on time and physical demands on carers

Abstract

Background: Caregivers are at a high risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Efficiency in handling and changing patients' absorbent incontinence products may reduce the burden of caring. Aims: This study aimed to compare various types of absorbent incontinence products from an ergonomic perspective and assess the length of time required for handling these products and the physical demand on caregivers' backs, hands and fingers. Methods: A within-subject design was selected for two studies involving 64 experienced nurses. The first study was conducted at a test centre in Germany, while the second was performed at a hospital in France. Objective data, such as the time required to apply or change a product and physical stress on the back and hands/wrists, as well as users' subjective assessment of product handling were investigated. Findings: Both objective and subjective assessments showed that elastic slips were superior to other slip products. The traditional and belted slips were the second-best products in the objective and subjective assessments respectively. Conclusion: Choice of incontinence product influences the time required and the physical demands associated with handling. Both aspects can be considerably reduced with the use of appropriate absorbent incontinence products.