Labor-Intensive Workflow Increases Risks of Occupational Injury among Healthcare Workers

        Healthcare workers play a crucial role in the healthcare system, primarily by providing care and health services to patients. Previous research on hospitals has demonstrated that hospital workers have a higher-than-average incidence rate of injury and illness1. They experience one of the highest rates of musculoskeletal disorders worldwide, with 46% of nursing assistants reporting hurting themselves while lifting, moving or helping a patient and 40% reporting a back injury due to conducting these tasks. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) include injuries or disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs. For instance, sprains or strains resulting from overexertion in lifting are considered MSDs. Especially, fear of injuries when moving patients with obesity is also a major concern of nurses and may affect an organization’s ability to attract and retain staff 2. Musculoskeletal injuries can significantly impair the care workforce, such as restricting patient coverage, reducing operating hours, and increasing staff turnover 3.​  

Nurses have an exceptionally high prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries globally4.  

。Europe: France 10-50%, Portugal 89%​ 

。Americas: United States 35.1-47%, Brazil 32.8-57.1%​ 

 。Asia: China 78.6%, Saudi Arabia 85%, Iran 88%​