Assessment of ergonomics and musculoskeletal system disorders in health professionals

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomics in health professionals. Materials and Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 321 health professionals working for research hospital in Izmir province. The data were collected through face-to-face interview using a questionnaire consisting of individual presentation form, Cornell Musculoskeletal Disorder Questionnaire and Ergonomics Scale. Data were analyzed using arithmetic averages, percentages, and Pearson's correlation. Results: The mean age of the health professionals was 32.6 ± 8.5 (18-64) years and 60.1% of them were female. It was found that 31.5% of health professionals had musculoskeletal system complaints related to work for at least two weeks and for a full-day and the level of ergonomics were moderate. A significant negative correlation was found between the mean of the Cornell Musculoskeletal Disorders Questionnaire and the mean of Ergonomics Scale. Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that health professionals' musculoskeletal system complaints increased with decreased level of ergonomics and that the study areas should be arranged in a way to support posture and ergonomics of health professionals. Key words: Musculoskeletal diseases, nursing stuff-hospital, cognitive ergonomics