Risk factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses in Taif region hospitals

Introduction. Nurses constitute roughly one-third of the staff at every hospital. Thus, the incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in this group could have a major effect on absences from work, job limitations, and possibly transfer to another job. Nurses are regularly subjected to physical stress, musculoskeletal demands, and strains. Objectives. The study intended to assess the prevalence and risk factors for WMSDs among nurses in Taif region hospitals (Saudi Arabia), as well as the management strategies used by nurses to cope with WMSDs. Methods. Nursing staff received the modified musculoskeletal questionnaire (Nordic questionnaire) through email and social media (WhatsApp, Messenger, etc.). After being recorded, the responses were analyzed. Results. The analysis included 210 nurses (a 60% response rate). The overall prevalence of WMSDs was 96% in the previous year, with the neck, low back, and shoulder being the most common sites of pain. The most common risk factors reported by participants were lifting patients (11.0%), bending or twisting for extended periods (10.5%), the challenge of continuing work when injured (10.5%), and seeing more patients in a day (10.5%). Conclusion. The total prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among nurses in the Taif region of Saudi Arabia was high, with the most common risk factors related to the nature of their work and the number of patients per day. Nurses employed various management strategies, primarily adjusting bed height and patient position, as well as modifying handling techniques.