ORCA General Oral Presentation Session (Virtual)
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Graduate
Major
MS in OSH
2nd Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Graduate
2nd Student Major
MS in OSH
3rd Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Graduate
3rd Student Major
MS in OSH
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Joe Abulhassan
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Patient handling is a common task within the healthcare industry. Rehabilitation Therapists (RTs) and Rehabilitation Therapist Assistants (RTAs) report a significantly high incidence rate of low-back injuries and other musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The purpose of this study was to characterize the ergonomic risks associated with patient transfers and assisted gait therapy. Exposure to ergonomic risk factors were assessed using the Strain Index (SI), Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), and 3-Dimensional Static Strength Prediction Program (3DSSPP). Subjects included three RTs and one RTA at a local assisted living and rehabilitation healthcare facility. Preliminary results indicate a high risk of developing MSDs within the lower back and shoulders for both tasks. Further investigation of engineering and administrative control measures to mitigate the development of MSDs associated with patient handling activities is discussed.
Spring Scholars Week 2020 Event
Other (Please write-in)
Other Scholars Week Event
OSH 663
Included in
Musculoskeletal Diseases Commons, Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene Commons, Occupational Therapy Commons
An Ergonomic Assessment of Healthcare Rehabilitation Workers
Patient handling is a common task within the healthcare industry. Rehabilitation Therapists (RTs) and Rehabilitation Therapist Assistants (RTAs) report a significantly high incidence rate of low-back injuries and other musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The purpose of this study was to characterize the ergonomic risks associated with patient transfers and assisted gait therapy. Exposure to ergonomic risk factors were assessed using the Strain Index (SI), Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), and 3-Dimensional Static Strength Prediction Program (3DSSPP). Subjects included three RTs and one RTA at a local assisted living and rehabilitation healthcare facility. Preliminary results indicate a high risk of developing MSDs within the lower back and shoulders for both tasks. Further investigation of engineering and administrative control measures to mitigate the development of MSDs associated with patient handling activities is discussed.