Investigation of Ergonomic Risks That Nurses are Exposed to in the Working Environment

Abstract

Objective: This research was conducted to determine the ergonomic risks that nurses are exposed to in the working environment. Methods: The research was conducted in a state hospital between December 2019 and February 2020. Data were collected from 144 nurses working in a state hospital. Introductory features form consisting of 13 questions and ergonomic risks form consisting of 42 questions were used in data collection. Results: It was determined that more than half of the nurses used non-ergonomic postures during patient care activities, 96.5% stood for a long time during working hours, and 22.2% had a musculoskeletal disease. Especially in the 30-39 age group and in women, the presence of mus-culoskeletal system disease was detected. It was found that the rate of low back pain in nurses working in the intensive care unit was higher than those working in other units. Conclusion: It has been determined that long-term working hours and challenging working con-ditions in nurses cause many health problems. Providing ergonomics training at regular intervals, regular health checks and making arrangements in the workplace according to ergonomic principles are the measures that can be taken to protect the health of nurses.