Title
Ergonomics in gynecologists' daily practice: A nationwide survey in The Netherlands
Author
Alleblas, C.C.J.
Formanoy, M.A.G.
Könemann, R.
Radder, C.M.
Huirne, J.A.
Nieboer, T.E.
Publication year
2016
Abstract
Background: Gynecologists are exposed to multiple risk factors for developing physical complaints. To enhance the workplace ergonomics in gynecological practice, a more detailed insight about job content and associated demands is necessary to subsequently decrease the exposure to risk factors. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of physical complaints and the presence of ergonomic constraints in Dutch gynecological practice. Methods: A questionnaire was distributed among the 1200 members of the Dutch Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. It consisted of 52 Dutch questions derived from the validated Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Results: A total of 227 respondents completed the questionnaire (response rate 18.9%). Overall, 99.5% of the respondents rated their health status as reasonable or good. However, the twelve-month prevalence of physical complaints in one or more body part was 89.4%. Sustained adverse body postures were particularly reported for performing abdominal, and endoscopic surgery, and for assisting in vaginal surgery. Limited workspace, instruments, and patient size were reported by more than 60% of the respondents as constraints for adopting a neutral body posture during vaginal, endoscopic and abdominal surgery respectively. Conclusion: The results emphasize the necessity of enhancing ergonomics in gynecological practice. Better ergonomic circumstances will most likely benefit both the health of the gynecologists as well as the quality of surgical care.
Subject
Life
SP - Sustainable Productivity and Employability
ELSS - Earth, Life and Social Sciences
Work and Employment
Workplace
Healthy Living
Musculoskeletal disorders
Health care; physical work
Work organization
Workplace ergonomics
To reference this document use:
http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:8d7caf43-0051-4b84-95ea-b1ca56ab821b
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3233/wor-162451
TNO identifier
575592
Source
Work, 55 (4), 841-848
Document type
article