The impact of a multifaceted ergonomic intervention program on promoting occupational health in community nurses

Community nurses are exposed to high physical demands at work resulting in musculoskeletal disorders. The present study examined the short- and long-term benefits of a multifaceted intervention program designed especially for community nurses in Hong Kong. Fifty community nurses working in 4 local hospitals participated in the study. All of them underwent an 8-week intervention program consisting of ergonomic training, daily exercise program, equipment modification, computer workstation assessment and typing training. All participants showed significant improvement in musculoskeletal symptoms and functional outcomes comparing pre- and post-intervention results. Significant reduction in symptom score was observed at 1-year follow-up compared to post-intervention. Symptomatic group (n=40) showed more significant changes overall compared to asymptomatic group (n=10). Results support the positive benefits, both short- and long-term, of the multifaceted ergonomic intervention programme for community nurses. ► The multifaceted intervention program is specially designed for community nurses. ► The program is effective both as a form of primary and secondary interventions. ► Participants showed significant reduction in musculoskeletal symptoms. ► Participants also recorded improved functional outcomes.