The effect of a knowledge-based ergonomic intervention amongst administrators at Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi

Abstract

Lack of adherence to the correct working conditions exposes workers to ergonomics-related hazards and eventually work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) which are estimated at 160 million per year globally. Literature shows that with modernization by use of computers, administrators are exposed to prolonged sitting and long working hours which predisposes them to ergonomic hazards. Low back pain and neck pain are the leading work-related musculoskeletal disorders with a lifetime prevalence of 70 - 80% and 50 - 60% respectively. Both low back pain and neck pain have a multifactorial aetiology that includes work-related and individual related factors. Lack of reporting of work-related injuries has led to paucity of statistical literature with regards to work-related low back pain and neck pain, especially in the developing countries. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of ergonomics related low back pain and neck pain, and describe the effect of a knowledge-based ergonomic intervention among administrators in Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi (AKUH, N). A mixed method design was used in this study using a survey and two focus group discussions (FGD). A self-administered questionnaire that is in four sections was administered to 208 participants. The questionnaire sought the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, the knowledge of participants with regards to low back pain and neck pain as well as the work -related and individual risk factors related to the same. The dissemination of the study results involved a one hour knowledge-based ergonomic session given to all interested participants, based on the information from the survey. Two FGD with purposive selection of eight participants were held to explore their experience on the value of the information provided