Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Nursing Staff of the Outpatient Clinic at the "Dr. Alejandro Dávila Bolaños" Military Teaching Hospital.

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and associated factors among nursing staff in the outpatient clinic of the “Dr. Alejandro Dávila Bolaños” Military Teaching Hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, with a convenience sample of 71 nursing professionals (52% nursing technicians, 39% bachelor’s degree holders, and 8% with a master’s degree). Data was collected using the standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, supplemented by sociodemographic, clinical, and ergonomic variables. Results revealed a 100% prevalence of MSDs, with all participants reporting musculoskeletal discomfort in at least one body region. The most frequently affected areas were knees and feet (48% each), followed by lower back (44%), hands (42%), and neck/shoulders (38%). Clinically, 49% reported neck pain, 32% low back pain (lumbago), and 15% inflammatory knee conditions. Ergonomic risk factors were prominent: 39.4% of clinical staff were exposed to forced postures, 23.9% to repetitive movements, and 8.5% to manual handling of loads. Additionally, nursing technicians exhibited a median body mass index (BMI) of 29, suggesting a potential compounding risk factor. These findings highlight the critical need for ergonomic interventions, physical activity promotion, and epidemiological surveillance system to reduce the burden of MSDs among nursing personnel.