Musculoskeletal complaints and psychosocial risk factors among Chinese hospital nurses

Background Musculoskeletal complaints represent a common occupational problem for health care workers throughout the world. Despite their sizeable numbers, however, few epidemiological studies have investigated musculoskeletal complaints among Chinese hospital nurses. Objective To assess the prevalence of, and risk factors for, musculoskeletal complaints among hospital nurses in mainland China. Methods A total of 282 female, registered nurses were surveyed (92% response rate) using a modified Chinese-language version of the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. Body sites were divided into the neck, shoulder, upper back and lower back regions. Results The 12 month period-prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints at any of the four regions was 70%. The lower back was the most commonly reported body site (56%), followed by the neck (45%), shoulder (40%) and upper back (37%). High mental pressure, boring or tedious tasks and limited work support were identified as significant risk factors (adjusted odds ratios: 1.79-2.52). No correlations were found between manual handling or perceived physical exertion and increased reporting of musculoskeletal complaints. Conclusion This study has shown that musculoskeletal complaints are prevalent among Chinese hospital nurses. The correlation with various psychosocial factors is also consistent with evidence from other countries.