AIM

To summarize current literature on the definition, categorization and measurement of social support in studies of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among hospital nurses.

DESIGN

A scoping review.

DATA SOURCES

A literature search of four databases (CINAHL, Medline, Embase and Web of Science) was employed to map the evidence between January 2012 and April 2023 on the definition, categorization and measurement of social support in studies of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses in hospital settings.

REVIEW METHODS

This review adopted Arksey and O'Malley's framework for conducting scoping reviews. Data extraction was reported using PRISMA Scoping Review guidelines and articles synthesized using a descriptive approach.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies met the criteria for inclusion in the review. Social support was distinctly defined in only two studies. Four main categories of social support identified were Co-worker, Supervisor, Family and Overall support. Eight tools were found to measure social support, and the most used tool was the Job Content Questionnaire.

CONCLUSIONS

The review identified that social support is often not explicitly defined. Furthermore, social support can be categorized and measured in different ways, using diverse tools. This variation may affect the understanding of social support and the approaches in measuring and providing social support in the workplace.

IMPACT

Studies should clearly define the social support category evaluated, to facilitate comparisons between studies of nurses with work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Healthcare managers should obtain feedback from nurses to ensure that the category of social support provided matches that which the nurse requires to ensure it helps the nurse from an organizational perspective. Healthy social relationships should be encouraged among nurses to promote nurses' well-being and by extension patient care.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

There was no patient or public involvement.