A Cross-Sectional Study on Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Staff Nurses in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Chennai

Background: Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) refer to injuries affecting the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs that arise from or are worsened by job-related activities. These disorders can result from frequent, repetitive tasks or awkward postures, leading to discomfort both during work and at rest. Aim and objective: To estimate the prevalence pattern of work-related Musculoskeletal disorders among the staff nurses. To study the relation of self-reported musculoskeletal strain pattern with RULA- Rapid upper limb assessment score among staff nurses in Government Kilpauk Medical College. Methods: 110 staff nurses working in Kilpauk Medical College were enrolled. Musculoskeletal symptoms were assessed using the Nordic Standardised Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and RULA scale to assess ergonomic risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders. Results: Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders is 56.4%. Musculoskeletal symptoms occurred most commonly in the lower back (68.2%), upper back (33.6%), neck (29.1%), shoulders (29%), ankles and feet (26.4%), and shoulder (23.6%). The 12-month and the last 7-day period of WMSDs in any region were 56.40% and 49.10% respectively. Comparing the working posture with the risk assessed by the RULA score shows that in the ICU, 9.1% are at negligible risk and 90.9% are at low risk. In the operating theatre, 75.0% are at low risk, and 25.0% are at medium risk. In outpatient services, 95.8% are at negligible risk, and 4.2% are at medium risk. In ward duty, 52.4% are at negligible risk, and 47.6% are at low risk. The p-value is 0.000, indicating statistical significance. Of which the Majority have a RULA score of 2 and 3 categories, indicating a low risk for injury and a need for ergonomic intervention. Conclusion: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are common among nurses, and lower back pain is the most common symptom. It is advisable to implement educational programs focused on prevention and coping strategies for musculoskeletal disorders among nurses to lower the incidence of workplace hazards and enhance the quality of patient care. The RULA scale can be used for ergonomic screening, recommending workstation modifications, and testing the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions.