Abstract:

Aim: The aim of our study is to examine the variables affecting musculoskeletal pain seen in nurses working in intensive care units and the relationship of these variables with ergonomic risks. Material and Methods: The research was conducted with 98 nurses working in the intensive care units of a state hospital. While collecting the data, “Descriptive Information Form” and “Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal System Inquiry” questionnaire were collected and “REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment-Fast Whole Body Evaluation) Employee Evaluation Form” was collected through observation. With the extended Nordic musculoskeletal pain question, nurses' pain in all body parts and ergonomic risk level were determined by REBA method. Analyzes were evaluated by chi - square and Mann Whitney-U test. Statistical significance value was taken as p<,05. The ethical committee and institution permissions required for conducting the study and voluntary consent were obtained from the participants. Results: In our study, three localizations where nurses experience the most frequent pain; Waist with 56.1%, back with 41.8% and neck regions with 39.8%. The pain localization of the muscles of the nurses, the height, shoulder, back and feet-ankle pain of those who have higher REBA scores. Conclusion: Muscle skeletal disorders can be seen as a result of the physical stresses experienced by the nurses. It is recommended that the work environment should be arranged in an ergonomic way and the nurses should be provided with periodic training programs including correct posture, working position and directing them to exercise programs appropriate for their discomfort.

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