Back School programme for nurses has reduced low back pain levels: A randomised controlled trial
Melinda Járomi1, Aniko Kukla2, Brigitta Szilágyi1
1Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Physiotherapy and Sport Science, University of Pécs, Pecs, Hungary.
Journal of Clinical Nursing
|August 4, 2017
Summary
The Spine Care for Nurses program significantly reduced chronic low back pain in nurses and improved their patient lifting techniques. This intervention is recommended for healthcare organizations to prevent back injuries.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health and safety
- Musculoskeletal disorder prevention
- Nursing practice and education
Background:
- Millions of nurses worldwide experience chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP).
- This pain is often linked to increased spinal pressure from improper patient lifting techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess nurses' patient lifting techniques.
- To evaluate the Spine Care for Nurses program's effectiveness in reducing CNSLBP and improving lifting techniques.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 137 nurses with CNSLBP.
- The experimental group (n=67) participated in a 3-month Spine Care for Nurses program (education, exercises, safe handling).
- The control group (n=70) received lifestyle guidance. Lifting techniques and pain intensity (VAS) were measured.
Main Results:
- CNSLBP intensity decreased from 49.3 to 7.5 in the experimental group.
- Correct vertical lifting technique execution rose from 8.91% to 97.01% in the experimental group.
- Correct horizontal lifting technique execution rose from 10.44% to 100% in the experimental group.
Conclusions:
- The Spine Care for Nurses program effectively reduced CNSLBP and improved nurses' patient lifting techniques.
- Regular implementation of this program is recommended for low back injury prevention in healthcare settings.
