INCIDENCE OFJOB-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM AILMENTS OF HOSPITAL EMPLOYEES IN TERMS OF WORKER SAFETY

The aim of this study, in terms of worker safety, is to determine the prevalence of job-related musculoskeletal ailments in in-patient treatment institutions, and to investigate the factors causing these conditions. Importance: Job-related musculoskeletal conditions, one of the most important causes of job related ailments in employees, occupy an important place among job-related health problems. Also in hospitals, musculoskeletal conditions make up a significant proportion of job-related ailments. The study was carried out by administering, to 53 participants face to face, 10 questions from the “Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire” measuring descriptive features; 10 questions evaluating workplace conditions; and 8 questions identifying the musculoskeletal ailments. 45 of the participants were female and 8 male. In data analysis, SPSS 20.0 was used. Pain appearance prevalence in the last 7 days was identified as 77.4% for lower back pain; 73.6% for neck pain, and 60.4% for back pain. It was observed that the capacity for work was negatively affected in 77.4% (n = 41) cases of lower back pain; 73.6% (n = 39) of neck pain; 58.5% of back pain; and 39.6% of right shoulder discomfort. In spite of this, it was identified that there were only7 nurses (13.2%) whose musculoskeletal discomfort was diagnosed by a physician. It was determined that more than 50% of nurses adopted incorrect positions in almost all situations related to body mechanics. It was concluded that the highest pain prevalence in the nurses was lower back pain with 77.4%, followed by neck pain with 58.5% and back pain with 58.5%. It was determined that among the nurses, those having pain throughout the last working week, experienced medium intensity pain, and those feeling pain, aches, or discomfort experienced minimal decrease in their capacity for work.