The association of harsh working environment and poor behavior habits with neck health

Abstract

PurposeTo aid nurses in preventing cervical spondylosis and neck subhealth, this study intends to investigate the relationship between neck health and the two categories of factors (behavior habits and working environment). MethodsA self-reported questionnaire combining the neck disability index and neck pain intensity measurement tool was used to collect data anonymously. Binary logistic regression was applied to explore the association of the neck health with the working environment and behavior habits. ResultsA total of 2880 nurses from more than ten hospitals in Kunshan participated in the survey. The risk factors of neck health status included cumulative arm lift time >1 h per day (OR = 1.29), typical head posture for using a computer [tilted to the left or right (OR = 1.67), head-down (OR = 1.36)], prolonged use of electronic products (OR = 1.34), prolonged head-down work (OR = 1.69), frequent assistance in turning the patient (OR = 1.27), maintaining a fixed position (OR = 1.70), having overload work (OR = 1.73), working hours >40 h per week (OR = 1.22), sedentary (OR = 1.28), napping while taking transportation (OR = 1.29), staying up late (OR = 1.40), poor ventilation (OR = 1.67), high humidity of working environment (OR = 1.83). The protective factors were sleeping enough hours per day (OR = 0.65) and exercise >2 h per week (OR = 0.81). ConclusionsAlthough the results suggest that nurses under 45 are particularly benefited, all nurses should pay more attention to their neck health. Policymakers and relevant authorities should pay attention to nurses' neck health, develop advanced tools through multidisciplinary cooperation, provide ergonomic education, remove adverse factors from the environment, and raise nurses' neck health awareness.