Riesgos ergonómicos que afectan al personal sanitario en el área quirúrgica, de un hospital público.

Abstract

Working in the operating room exposes healthcare personnel to high physical and postural demands that increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). In public hospitals, the limited systematic assessment of these risks hinders the implementation of preventive strategies adapted to the real-world context. Within the scope of this study, the objective was to identify the ergonomic risks present and to evaluate the musculoskeletal risks faced by healthcare personnel in the gynecological and obstetric surgical area of the Ministry of Public Health Hospital in the city of Babahoyo. Using an observational, mixed-methods, and cross-sectional approach, this case study was developed through direct observation during a cesarean section, applying the REBA and RULA methods to estimate ergonomic risk. A self-report survey was administered, including the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorders Questionnaire, and a semi-structured interview was conducted to explore perceptions and coping strategies. The surgical team consisted of five professionals. With scores identified as medium and high risk, the REBA scores ranged between 4 and 8 and the RULA scores between 4 and 7, and the risk was designated as high, especially among obstetricians and gynecologists. It was also observed that all participants reported musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the last 12 months, predominantly cervical, dorsal, and lumbar pain, as well as functional limitations. There was a correlation between higher postural risk and greater pain intensity. Qualitative analysis revealed a high physical workload, few institutional strategies, and normalization of pain. The obstetrics and gynecology operating room staff experience a high ergonomic workload and a high prevalence of MSDs. The implementation of institutional programs for prevention and ergonomic training is required.