Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Ergonomic Risk Profiles in Surgical Intensive Care Nurses

Nermin Ocaktan; H. Banu Katran; Melisa Katıkçı; Nurgül Arpag

doi:10.31067/acusaglik.1829198

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Ergonomic Risk Profiles in Surgical Intensive Care Nurses

Abstract

Background: This study examined the relationship between ergonomic risk factors, postural behaviors, lifestyle habits, and the presence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among surgical intensive care nurses. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 227 surgical intensive care nurses in Türkiye. Data were collected using an online Nurse Assessment Form and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression analysis. Results: Most nurses reported inadequate sleep (64.4%) and irregular sleep patterns. The prevalence of WMSDs increased significantly with age and professional experience—from 18.1% among nurses ≤30 years to 54.5% among those ≥41 years (p<0.001). Nurses with WMSDs reported significantly lower use of correct body mechanics (25.5% vs.46.5%; p=0.004) and lower physical activity levels (p=0.018). WMSDs were significantly more prevalent among nurses working in second-level ICUs compared with those working in third-level ICUs (44.8% vs. 21.2%; p=0.008). Binary logistic regression analysis identified age and correct use of body mechanics as significant predictors of WMSDs. Conclusion: Surgical intensive care nurses experience substantial ergonomic risk exposure that may contribute to the development of WMSDs. Continuous ergonomics training, improved shift scheduling, posture-supportive workplace practices, and the promotion of regular physical activity may help reduce musculoskeletal strain and improve occupational well-being. These findings highlight the importance of integrated ergonomic strategies to enhance nurse well-being and patient safety in surgical intensive care settings.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Surgical Diseases Nursing , ICU Nursing

Journal Section

Research Article

Authors

Nermin Ocaktan ^*
0000-0001-9936-977X
Türkiye

H. Banu Katran
0000-0001-5095-6316
Türkiye

Melisa Katıkçı
0009-0009-2243-6431
Türkiye

Nurgül Arpag
0000-0002-7774-3844
Türkiye

Publication Date

April 29, 2026

Submission Date

November 24, 2025

Acceptance Date

March 10, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 17 Number: April, May, June 2026

DOI

https://doi.org/10.31067/acusaglik.1829198

IZ

https://izlik.org/JA97BR57WY

Cite

RIS / Bibtex

EndNote

Ocaktan N, Katran HB, Katıkçı M, Arpag N (April 1, 2026) Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Ergonomic Risk Profiles in Surgical Intensive Care Nurses. Acıbadem Üniversitesi Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi 17 April, May, June 2026