Prevalence and Associated Workplace Factors of Musculoskeletal Discomfort Among Critical Care Nurses in a Malaysian Teaching Hospital

Background/Objectives: Musculoskeletal discomfort disorders (MSDs) are common occupational health problems among nurses, particularly in critical care settings due to physically demanding tasks and prolonged patient care activities. However, evidence regarding MSDs among critical care nurses in Malaysian teaching hospitals remains limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, severity, and associated workplace factors of musculoskeletal discomfort among critical care nurses in Kelantan, Malaysia. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 308 critical care nurses working at Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Descriptive statistics, simple logistic regression, and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed using IBM SPSS version 30. Results: The prevalence of severe musculoskeletal discomfort among respondents was high, with 82.1% reporting severe discomfort. Several workplace-related factors were significantly associated with severe musculoskeletal discomfort in the bivariable analysis, including awkward back bending, carrying heavy equipment, manual orthopedic patient handling, insufficient rest breaks, awkward working positions, working while injured, and inadequate training on injury prevention. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified manual orthopedic patient handling (AOR = 1.882, 95% CI: 1.033–3.426, p = 0.039) and insufficient rest breaks during shifts (AOR = 2.581, 95% CI: 1.466–4.543, p = 0.001) as significant predictors of severe musculoskeletal discomfort. Conclusions: Musculoskeletal discomfort is highly prevalent among critical care nurses. Workplace ergonomic strain and inadequate recovery periods significantly contribute to severe musculoskeletal discomfort. Strengthening ergonomic practices, safe patient handling strategies, and occupational health interventions is essential to improve nurses’ well-being and maintain quality patient care.