Development and evaluation of a mobile app-based musculoskeletal exercise program for operating room nurses

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop a mobile app-based musculoskeletal exercise program (AMSEP) for operating room (OR) nurses and evaluate its effects on self-efficacy, the flexibility of the shoulders, lower back, and legs, and musculoskeletal symptoms and fatigue. Methods: The AMSEP was developed based on the information-motivation-behavioral skill model. In total, 48 OR nurses were recruited at a university hospital in Korea and divided into an experimental group (n=24) and a control group (n=24), matched for career experience in the OR. The experimental group participated in the AMSEP, while the control group received a booklet regarding musculoskeletal exercise. Results: The experimental group showed significant increases in self-efficacy (t = -2.77, p = .008) and flexibility of the right shoulder (t = -4.08, p < .001), left shoulder (t = -3.28, p = .002), lower back (t = -3.75, p < .001), and legs (t = -3.96, p < .001) compared to the control group. Musculoskeletal symptoms (t = 2.75, p = .008), and fatigue (Z = -1.98, p = .048) significantly decreased in the experimental group compared to the control group. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the AMSEP for OR nurses provided information on the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders and methods of exercise, as well as an opportunity for continued exercise performance through self-management. The AMSEP was easily accessible and effective in increasing self-efficacy and flexibility and reducing musculoskeletal symptoms and fatigue.