What is it about?
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most common work-related injuries identified among caregivers in health sector as a high-risk group. The study aimed to investigate the factors that influence musculoskeletal disorders among caregiver and to evaluate the relationship between work and non-work related factors and MSDs. The survey included a demographic questionnaire and a Nordic Standardized musculoskeletal questionnaire. Logistic regression was performed to determine the risk factors associated with MSDs. The Odds ratio (OR) was calculated to define the influence of each risk factors. In addition, we used forward logistic regression analysis to validate the predictive model. In this cross-sectional survey, the results showed that 70 (67.3%) participants reported MSDs. MSD was highest at the lower back (46%), then knee (15.4%) and shoulder (11.5%). The overall success of the prediction is 90.4% (94.6 for having MSDs). The most important risk factors were manual handling (p < 0.001, odds ratio = 45.64) followed by bending (p = 0.008, odds ratio = 39.4).
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Why is it important?
Policy makers and preventive strategies require a multidimensional approach that integrates psychosocial, ergonomic and professional considerations. Enhancement to occupational accident prevention strategies and basic ergonomic training may also be needed.
Perspectives
Policy makers may need to limit the number of hours a caregiver works per week. This attempts to limit the prevalence of caregivers to MSD. In addition, policy makers may highlight a break while lifting the task and a stop when the caregiver begins to feel pain while performing the task. Other policy improvements may attempt to completely redesign the lifting operation to escape movements recognized as high risk factors. In addition, more policies are needed aimed at raising awareness of workstation injuries, their significances, and preventative methods considered to minimize injuries. Essential training in work-related accident, prevention policies and ergonomics will also assist caregivers. This study contributes in the field of human factors and ergonomic risk management by suggesting a framework for identifying factors related to MSDs and creating predictive models. Practitioners can use these results to help caregivers change their working conditions and implement preventive policies.
MOHD ALAM
King Khalid University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Investigating factors affecting musculoskeletal disorders: Predictive models for identifying caregivers at risk, WORK A Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, August 2022, IOS Press,
DOI: 10.3233/wor-210309.
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