Low back pain (LBP) is prevalent
in many industrialized societies. There is a high prevalence of LBP among staff
members working in hospitals. Of all the health care workers, a higher
prevalence of LBP is reported among nurses. A study among nurses in Sudayr
region revealed that 53.2 % of the nurses had worked related LBP and a positive
correlation was seen between place of work and pain duration.
The nature of work influences the
prevalence of LBP among nurses. Nurses working in areas requiring strenuous
physical activity are more prone for LBP. Improper postural mechanics also
has a direct effect on the prevalence of LBP. Patient lifting and postural
requirements during the work poses a high risk to nurses in a hospital
environment. Especially in the developing countries absence or lack of lifting
aids forces the nurses to strain during shifting of patients.
It is reported that poor knowledge of back
care ergonomics and unavailability of lifting equipment are major predisposing
factors to LBP among nurses. Overweight and obesity also seem to worsen the
condition among adults. Nurses are the major work force of any health care.
Their wellbeing will reflect on the standard and quality of patient care. LBP
is a common occupational hazard which can affect the performance of nurses in
the clinical area.
No comments:
Post a Comment