NU'CARE: A PARTICIPATORY OCCUPATIONAL ERGONOMICS PROGRAM FOR OPERATING ROOM NURSES

Authors

  • Sirirat Watkhoksoong
  • Sunisa chaiklieng

Keywords:

Ergonomics program, Musculoskeletal disorder reduction, Operating room nurses, Participatory ergonomics program

Abstract

            Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) have become the most common work-related health issue in the present time. This study aimed to develop a risk reduction program for operating room nurses by applying the principles of participatory ergonomics. This research and development program design was conducted in three phases. Phase 1 involved studying the program model, which consisted of two steps: (1) analyzing occupational health problems among operating room nurses, and (2) reviewing ergonomic intervention studies. Phase 2 focused on designing an ergonomic program. Phase 3 involved evaluating the feasibility of program implementation. The results revealed that the developed program, based on participatory ergonomics, comprised seven steps: (1) collecting ergonomic risk data, (2) analyzing ergonomic risk problems, (3) promoting ergonomic work practices, (4) designing ergonomic problem prevention strategies, (5) establishing management approaches and goals for ergonomic risk reduction, (6) implementation, and (7) monitoring issues. The results, based on consensus among participants showed agreement on several key aspects: (1) promoting ergonomic practices through patient lifting/moving assistance and taking breaks during surgeries lasting over an hour, (2) the structure for ergonomic risk prevention and reduction, (3) program content including scheduled stretching breaks with point-based incentives, and (4) the use of clear, easy-to-understand visual materials that are practically applicable. The stretching schedule and supporting materials were refined for clarity. An expertise review agreement also suggested that program activities were appropriate for the target group, namely “NU'care: A Participatory Occupational Ergonomics Program “and recommended risk-based grouping, with a focus on high-risk individuals to prevent and risk reducing of musculoskeletal disorders. However, further studies are recommended to evaluate the effectiveness of the program in reducing musculoskeletal disorders among operating room nurses.

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Published

2025-06-29

Issue

Vol. 8 No. 1 (2025): January - June 2025

Section

Original article

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