Measurement and Evaluation of Health, Functional Capacity, Physical Fitness, and Daily Habits of Greek Female Healthcare Professionals Working in a Hospital Environment.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The wellness profile of healthcare professionals is of crucial importance since it can affect the quality of healthcare services. This study created a comprehensive profile of health, functional capacity, physical fitness, and lifestyle behaviours in hospital healthcare professionals.

METHODS

A hundred female (age: 45.53 ± 2 yrs) professionals underwent assessments of their health (respiratory function/blood pressure/body circumference/body fat/body mass index/musculoskeletal pains), functional capacity (flexibility/balance), physical fitness (strength/aerobic capacity), and daily habits (smoking/alcohol/caffeinated beverages/screen time/physical activity).

RESULTS

According to data analysis (descriptive statistics, paired -tests to analyze possible differences between the right and left sides), (a) 39% of the participants were overweight and 28% obese, (b) 40-44% of the participants showed higher values than normal in waist circumference and systolic blood pressure, and (c) 96% of the participants showed musculoskeletal pains. Functional capacity and physical fitness demonstrated significant differences in balance and flexibility ( < 0.05) between sides (right/left) and low levels of strength and dynamic balance-agility. Moreover, 67% of the sample did not participate in physical activities, while a significant percentage showed increased screen time on weekdays (44%) and weekends (61%). Finally, 36% of the sample smoked, 62% consumed alcohol, and 92% consumed caffeinated beverages (the majority were within permissible limits).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study contributes valuable insights into the wellness profile of healthcare professionals to ensure optimal care for this population.