When the Other Shoe Drops on Ergonomics on Labor and Delivery [ID 1421]

INTRODUCTION: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are compounding the physician shortage by affecting physician well-being and longevity. Obstetrician–gynecologists demonstrated 2.5–3 times higher rates of sick leave attributed to MSDs compared to other medical specialties. Additionally, 25.8% of obstetrician–gynecologists required modification of their scope of work after injury. Given the limited research focused specifically on labor and delivery (L&D), our objective is to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and occupational injury among obstetrician–gynecologists on L&D. METHODS: An anonymous questionnaire based on prior ergonomics research and incorporating the validated Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was emailed to the Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles obstetrics and gynecology department. There was a 62% response rate and descriptive analysis was performed on this sample of 44 respondents. RESULTS: The majority of obstetrician–gynecologists (97.7%) had musculoskeletal symptoms in the past 12 months and 36.4% sustained workplace injuries at some point in their career. There were increasing reports of injury with more time spent on L&D. Smaller glove sizes were associated with more upper-extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and injuries. Larger shoe sizes had higher reports of lower back pain. Respondents who used clogs reported fewer workplace injuries than those who used athletic shoes. Approximately 60% incorporated ergonomic tools into their practice after developing symptoms or sustaining work-related injuries. Most respondents stated that knowledge, time, or resources were the main barriers to incorporating ergonomic tools. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: This study supports that MSDs and injuries occur frequently on L&D and that there is a need for implementation of ergonomic teachings and interventions.