Musculoskeletal disorders and occupational demands in nurses at a tertiary care hospital in Mexico City.

Objective: Identify the association between working conditions, musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic demands on nurses.

Background: The physical demands of nursing often require repetitive and forced movements that increase the likelihood of developing musculoskeletal disorders, which are the main occupational diseases in this working population.

Methodology: Cross-sectional study of 329 nurses chosen at random. Initial symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) were evaluated using Kuorinka's Nordic questionnaire; occupational demands and domestic activities were evaluated using the Individual Survey for Workers' Health, PROESSAT. Logistic regression models were fit to identify associations between musculoskeletal symptoms and occupational activities.

Results: A prevalence of 87% and 83% of musculoskeletal disorders was found in the neck and dorsal/lumbar regions, respectively. Using logistic models, associations were identified between ergonomic requirements, exposure time, domestic work, supervision and discomfort in various regions of the body.

Conclusions: Postural demands are closely associated with the development of musculoskeletal disorders. Early identification and timely intervention are fundamental.

Implications For Nursing Management: Musculoskeletal disorders are very common among nurses and are closely associated with occupational tasks.