Physical Activity and Sedentary Patterns of Emergency Department Nurses

Abstract

Quantification of physical activity and sedentary behavior in the free-living environment is important when seeking to understand potential physiological consequences and/or benefits. Objective monitors allow researchers to evaluate physical activity and sedentary behavior in the free-living environment using a variety of modalities. PURPOSE: To compare occupational (OPA) and non-occupational (NOPA) physical activity and sedentary behavior among Emergency Department (ED) nurses using the StewWatch-3 (SW), Omron HJ-303 (O), NL-2000 (NL), and ActivPal (AP). METHODS: Thirteen ED nurses (10 women) consented to participate in the study and wore the devices for seven days. Paired-samples t-tests were used to determine differences between occupational and non-occupational steps per day, standing time, stepping time, and time spent sitting/lying down. RESULTS: ED nurses averaged 7,713-16,032 and 7,181-9,119 steps per day for OPA and NOPA, respectively. The SW, NL, and AP counted significantly more steps during occupational days (P<0.05). The AP counted significantly more time standing and time spent stepping during occupational days (P<0.05). In addition, the AP counted significantly less time spent while sitting/lying down during occupational days (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: During occupational days ED nurses walk more and spend significantly less time sitting/lying down. Due to technological advancements, many jobs are becoming more sedentary. Because of their occupational physical activity demands, ED nurses may be a population of interest for researchers interested in the physiological benefits of physical activity and the physiological consequences of sedentary behavior.