Prevalence and Risk Factors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Nurses in Erbil Teaching Hospitals

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONWork-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are isolated or shared problems in the muscles, tendons, synovial membranes (joint tissue) nerves, fascia (connective tissue) and ligaments, with or without tissue degeneration. They are diagnosed by the occurrence of symptoms, along with or not, like: pain, numbness, feeling of heaviness and fatigue *1+. These injuries generally affect the superior limbs, scapular region around the shoulder and cervical region, but can also affect the inferior limbs and are frequent causes of temporary or permanent occupational disabilities. Injury caused by work-related musculoskeletal disorders arise from the extreme use of the musculoskeletal system and its inadequate recovery, and comprises clinical conditions. Workers are victims when they are submitted to poor work conditions *2+. The risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders is high among different healthcare professionals *3+. WMSDs happen in some careers, including nursing, Background and objective: The term musculoskeletal disorders includes a gamut of inflammatory and degenerative conditions that affect the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, peripheral nerves, and supporting blood vessels with consequent ache, pain or discomfort. The risk of musculoskeletal disorders is high among various healthcare professionals. This study investigated the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and risk factors among nurses in Erbil teaching hospitals. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Erbil city teaching hospitals in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. A total number of 256 nurses were selected as study samples through the use of non-probability convenience sampling method. The data were collected by a standardized questionnaire through the use of the interview (face to face) technique. Results: The previous 12-month prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses was 67%. Lower back disorder was the most prevalent disorder compared to other body regions at 75% followed by 52% reported in one or both knees, and the lowest percentages (9%) reported in the upper back region. Conclusion: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are high among nurses. There was an association between the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, genders, and training program on preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders. It is recommended that training programmes on prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders be implemented for all nurses.