WORK-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG SONOGRAPHY SERVICE PROVIDERS WORKING AT HEALTH FACILITIES OF GAMO AND WOLAITA ZONES, SOUTHERN

Abstract

Introduction: Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) are conditions that affect the body's muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, joints, and supporting systems. They are significant occupational issues, causing morbidity in many working populations. Despite the vital role sonography service providers play in diagnostic healthcare delivery, there is limited research addressing different factors regarding work related musculoskeletal disorders in Ethiopia. Objectives: To assess the magnitude and identify factors that contribute to work related musculoskeletal disorders among sonography service providers in Gamo and Wolaita Zones. Methods: Facility based cross sectional study using simple random sampling technique was conducted in Gamo and Wolaita zone public and private hospitals from September- Nov, 2024. A total of 317 study participants working at public and private health facilities in the Gamo and Wolaita Zone were planned. Data were collected using a pretested structured electronic questionnaire. Data analysis were done using SPSS version 27. Bivariate and Multivariable logistic regression analysis were employed to determine significant variables. Results: From the total sample size (317), about 313 sonography service providers responded in this study giving a response rate of 98.73%. The magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among sonography service providers was 249 (79.6%) (95%CI [74.48- 83.99]). Shoulders (38.98%), neck (28.56%), wrists/hands (28.66%) and low back (7.00%) were parts of body affected by work related musculoskeletal disorders. Maintaining the same position for extended period of time (AOR= 4.41, 95%CI [1.81-10.78]), having work fatigue (AOR= 8.35, 95%CI [2.82-45.67]) absence of height adjustable ultrasound screen (AOR=2.94, 95%CI [1.32-6.53]),and having no break times during the work day(AOR= 4.055, 95%CI [1.27-12.90]) were significantly associated with work related musculoskeletal disorders with a p-value of < 0.05. Conclusion and Recommendation: This study found high magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). Workplace ergonomics and work practices like maintaining the same position for extended period of time, fatigue, absence of height adjustable ultrasound machine screens, and insufficient work breaks were significant factors. This high figure highlights the critical need for targeted interventions in the field. x