Explore the critical link between low back pain and work overload among hospital caregivers, shedding light on the factors that contribute to their well-being and job performance.
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Low back pain, work overload, and associated factors among hospital caregivers.
Medeni et al., Work 2024
<!– DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230524 //–>
https://doi.org/10.3233/WOR-230524
This study delves into the occupational health challenges faced by hospital caregivers, focusing on the prevalence of excessive workload and low back pain, and identifying associated factors. Conducted at Gazi University Hospital, it involved 528 participants, revealing that 18.7% had experienced work accidents, and 49.0% had sharp injuries. A significant 68.9% engaged in physically demanding tasks, with 72.2% standing for extended periods. Over half (52.8%) reported working under stress, and 57.6% suffered from low back pain in the past year. Factors such as gender, body mass index, prolonged standing, and stress were significantly linked to low back pain. Additionally, those with night shifts, work accidents, or engaged in patient positioning, standing for long periods, and working under stress had higher excessive workload scores. The study suggests implementing patient lifting tools, enhancing occupational health and safety training, and promoting exercises and stress reduction techniques to improve caregiver well-being.
Importance: This research highlights the critical need for addressing the physical and psychological burdens faced by hospital caregivers, suggesting practical interventions to mitigate these risks.