Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Risk Factors among Nurses Working at Hospitals in Far Western Nepal

Nurses working in low-resource settings are at high risk of exposure to work hazards, resulting in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among nurses working at a private and public hospital in Sudurpaschim province in far western Nepal. Self-administered Nordic Musculoskeletal questionnaire was used to collect data on musculoskeletal complaints across nine body sites. The analysis of data was performed using descriptive and logistic regression. Most of the respondents reported experiencing musculoskeletal pain and discomfort, among which lower back pain was common. Nearly half of the nurses had to take sick leave due to pain and discomfort. The experience of WMSDs varied according to age, type of hospital, and working unit. Working in the same posture for a prolonged time was perceived as a major risk factor for WMSDs. Hospital administrators should implement ergonomic strategies to reduce the burden of WMSDs among nurses.