Using of Cornell measuring tool (Cornell musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaires) for assessment of the musculoskeletal disorders prevalence among Ilam teaching hospitals nurses: Cross-sectional study in 2016

Abstract

Introduction: Nurses in compare of other health practitioners have a greater risk for musculoskeletal injuries due to high physical activity together with bending, twisting, prolonged standing, patient moving, and lifting heavy objects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate musculoskeletal disorders by Cornell measuring tool among Ilam teaching hospitals nurses. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional analysis in 2016. A total of 120 people of Ilam teaching hospitals nurses randomly interred the study. Participants completed the questionnaire set for assess demographic characteristics (employment, working hours, shift work, and work experience) and musculoskeletal disorders (Cornell musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaires). Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 21 software and with the conduct of Pearson's correlation test and independent sample t test. Results: The results showed that 52 cases (3.43%) of participants were male and 68 (7.56%) were female. The highest discomfort incidence was reported to the lower back (70%) and neck (69.2%), respectively. Pearson's correlation test showed statistically significant relationship between the age, gender, and work experience with discomfort (P 0.05). Discussion: According to the high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the lower back and neck in the population studied, ergonomic interventions suggested. Conclusion: The use of appropriate educational programs, ergonomic intervention, and the use of health and safety equipment can reduce MSDs and increase productivity of nurses.