workplace stresses and musculoskeletal disorders among nurses: a cross-sectional study

Objectives: work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a significant occupational problem among employees and workers. this study attempted to explore the effect of stressors in the hospital environment on nurses’ development of musculoskeletal disorders. methods: we conducted a cross-sectional survey in a random sample of 123 hospital nurses from semnan university of medical sciences. data were collected during working days over 3 months starting from january 2014. participants completed a standardized questionnaire for stresses and musculoskeletal disorders at work. musculoskeletal disorders were used as the dependent variables, while demographic, physical, and psychosocial work factors were used as independent variables. results: our study revealed prevalence of low back ache, neck ache, shoulder ache, arm-elbow ache, and hand-wrist pain rated 48.3%, 39.5%, 33.1%, 31.3%, and 23.4%, respectively. the findings showed significant statistical association between musculoskeletal complaints in neck and upper extremity with exposed stress levels (p = 0.04). musculoskeletal symptoms rates increased in employees experienced poor work posture (p = 0.01), fatigue (p = 0.04), and work-family conflict (p = 0.04). conclusions: this study provides indication of the relationship between work environment stress levels and musculoskeletal disorders. physical and psychosocial stressors should be considered for the development of preventive measures.