Musculoskeletal disorders and occupational demands in nurses at a tertiary care hospital in Mexico City.

OBJECTIVE

Identify the association between working conditions, musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic demands on nurses.

BACKGROUND

The physical demands of nursing often require repetitive and forced movements that increase the likelihood of developing musculoskeletal disorders, which are the main occupational diseases in this working population.

METHODOLOGY

Cross-sectional study of 329 nurses chosen at random. Initial symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) were evaluated using Kuorinka's Nordic questionnaire; occupational demands and domestic activities were evaluated using the Individual Survey for Workers' Health, PROESSAT. Logistic regression models were fit to identify associations between musculoskeletal symptoms and occupational activities.

RESULTS

A prevalence of 87% and 83% of musculoskeletal disorders was found in the neck and dorsal/lumbar regions, respectively. Using logistic models, associations were identified between ergonomic requirements, exposure time, domestic work, supervision and discomfort in various regions of the body.

CONCLUSIONS

Postural demands are closely associated with the development of musculoskeletal disorders. Early identification and timely intervention are fundamental.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT

Musculoskeletal disorders are very common among nurses and are closely associated with occupational tasks.