Evaluation of Musculoskeletal Pain among Nurses

Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of pain related to musculoskeletal system among nurses.

Methods: In a cross-sectional study, musculoskeletal pain was evaluated using the extended of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. A figure showing nine anatomical areas of the body used for the survey (neck, shoulders, upper and lower back, elbows, wrists/hands, hips/thighs, knees, and ankle/feet). Prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The logistic regression analysis was performed for identification of risk factors that may impact on pain. A significance level of 0.05 was set for the study.

Results: The main age of nurses in the study was 32.70±8.03. Two hundred seventeen, of whom 92.6% had musculoskeletal pain in at least one body part, participated in the study. The respondent most often reported symptoms in the low back (66.4%), upper back (56.2%), neck (51.6%), and ankle/feet (44.7%). 56.2% reported low back pain during the past 12 months, and 48.8% during the past one month and past one week (32.7%). Being male (odds ratio= 2.21, 95% confidence interval= 1.22-4.01) and increased body mass index (odds ratio= 1.23, 95% confidence interval= 1.06-1.43) were the most important factors that increased pain complaints in at least one body part. Age wasn’t found to be related to musculoskeletal pain.

Conclusions: In this study, musculoskeletal pain was very common among nurses. It is important to provide training about occupational risks. A need to implement preventive measures, early diagnosis, and exercise programs for nursing personnel.