Date of Award

11-4-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)

First Advisor

Dr Rubina Barolia

Second Advisor

Dr Shahryar Noordin

Third Advisor

Miss Naheed Feroz Ali

Department

School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder among healthcare workers, particularly nurses working in intensive care units (ICUs), where the physical demands of patient care are high. ICU nurses are frequently required to lift, bend, and stand for prolonged periods, which increases their risk of developing LBP. This study focuses on assessing the prevalence of LBP among ICU nurses and identifying associated risk factors in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.
Purpose: The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of LBP among ICU nurses over the past 12 months. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the organizational, psychosocial, and individual factors contributing to LBP among ICU nurses.
Method: This cross-sectional study included 200 ICU nurses from a tertiary care hospital. A self[1]structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, work[1]related factors, and LBP occurrence. The study also examined the impact of staffing levels, the use of assistive devices, and prolonged standing on LBP prevalence. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the prevalence, while chi-square tests were used to explore associations between variables.
Finding: The results revealed a high prevalence of LBP, with 82.5% of participants reporting LBP in the past 12 months. Nurses with inadequate staffing for patient transfers were more likely to experience LBP (84.8%) compared to those with sufficient support (77.9%), though this association was not statistically significant (p = 0.22). Prolonged standing and repetitive movements were identified as key risk factors. These findings are consistent with previous research, underscoring the significant physical strain ICU nurses face.
Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to reduce LBP among ICU nurses. Recommendations include improving staffing levels, providing ergonomic training, and increasing access to assistive devices for patient handling. Such measures could alleviate the physical strain on ICU nurses and promote better occupational health.

First Page

1

Last Page

60

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