Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Training on Ergonomic Risks Exposed to Nurses While Measuring Blood Pressure

Abstract

Background Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and work-related disabilities occur as a result of long-term exposure to inappropriate working postures and repetitive use of inappropriate body postures, leading to harmful consequences for the patient, the employee, and the employer. In order to prevent all these, it is important to analyze working postures. The aim of this study was to determine ergonomic risks and MSDs during the blood pressure measurement process, which nurses frequently repeat, and to evaluate the effectiveness of the training given. Methods A quasi-experimental design was used in this study. The study was carried out with the participation of 64 nurses in a training and research hospital in Turkey. First, they were evaluated for the prevalence and risk of MSDs using the Nordic questionnaire and the rapid entire body assessment (REBA) form and photographing them. The nurses with high risk were included in the ergonomics training program and were followed up twice in three months. Results The reduction in the prevalence of MSDs in different parts of the body after the training was as follows: neck (p = 0.003), shoulder (p = 0.045), hip/thig (p = 0.035). It was found that the nurses’ mean REBA score was high before the training and that the mean score decreased in the first- and third-month observations after the training (p < 0.001). The training was therefore found to be effective. Conclusion Nurses should be trained about inappropriate working positions and correct posture that may cause musculoskeletal disorders. In addition, it is recommended that they be directed to exercise programs that will support the musculoskeletal system.