Effect of Patient Handling Techniques on Work- Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Ward-Boys and Housekeeping Staff of Hospitals

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) pose significant challenges to the occupational health and well-being of healthcare support personnel, including ward boys and housekeeping staff in hospitals. These individuals are frequently engaged in physically demanding tasks, such as patient handling, lifting, and repetitive movements, which can lead to various musculoskeletal issues over time. WRMSDs not only impact the quality of life and productivity of these workers but also incur substantial costs to healthcare systems due to increased absenteeism and healthcare utilization. Effective strategies to prevent and manage WRMSDs among hospital support staff are imperative for promoting occupational health and safety. Through a comprehensive assessment of WRMSDs using the Nordic Questionnaire and the evaluation of upper and lower body strength and flexibility, this research aims to shed light on the efficacy of structured exercise routines and patient handling training in reducing the incidence and severity of WRMSDs among healthcare support personnel. However, despite the potential benefits, the specific impact of such interventions on WRMSDs among ward boys and housekeeping staff remains understudied. Therefore, this research seeks to address this gap by investigating the effects of structured exercise regimens and training in patient handling techniques on strength, flexibility, and WRMSDs in these occupational groups. Aim: To study the impact of structured exercise regimen and training in patient handling techniques on enhancing strength and flexibility while addressing work related musculoskeletal disorders among housekeeping staff and ward boys. Objectives: To assess Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) using Nordic Questionnaire. To assess the effect of upper and lower body strength and flexibility. To evaluate the effect of structured exercise regimen and patient handling techniques on WRMSDs in ward boys and housekeeping staff of hospitals. Method: 40 participants were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. At the beginning of the study WRMSDs was assessed using Nordic Questionnaire. Baseline measurements of upper and lower body strength and flexibility were conducted using outcome measures which included V Sit and ReachTest, Back Scratch Test, Squat Test, Modified Push Up test.Participants underwent a structured exercise program designed to enhance strength and flexibility and training focused on proper patient handling techniques, including lifting, transferring, and positioning.Outcome measures were again assessed post intervention.Statistical analysis was performed to compare pre and post-intervention outcomes.Result: This study showed that statistically significant results were observed in all outcome measures with p value <0.001.Also, there was self-reported reduction in pain related to musculoskeletal disorders.Conclusion: This study concluded that there is significant impact of patient handling techniques on the occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) among ward boys and housekeeping staff in hospitals.Through the implementation of a structured exercise regimen and training in proper patient handling techniques, there is encouraging outcome in enhancing both strength and flexibility while addressing WRMSDs.