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Backing out: nurse wastage associated with back pain
International Journal of Nursing Studies
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Back pain is a significant factor for nurses and nursing auxiliaries leaving their jobs. Over 12% of leavers cite back pain as a reason, highlighting the need for better support and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Nursing Studies
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Back pain is a prevalent issue among healthcare professionals.
- High turnover rates in nursing can impact patient care and healthcare system efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the extent to which back pain influences nurses and nursing auxiliaries leaving their positions.
- To understand the implications of back pain-related departures for healthcare workforce planning.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among 1008 National Health Service nurses and nursing auxiliaries who were leaving their current positions.
- Data collected focused on reasons for departure, specifically identifying back pain as a primary or contributing factor.
Main Results:
- 1.3% of departing nurses left solely due to back pain.
- One in 29 nurses leaving cited back pain as a main or contributory cause.
- 12% of all nurses intending to leave permanently reported back pain as a key factor.
Conclusions:
- Back pain is a significant driver of workforce attrition in nursing and auxiliary roles.
- Healthcare authorities must address back pain through education, prompt treatment, and preventative measures to reduce long-term morbidity and wastage.
- Interventions should target both registered nurses and nursing auxiliaries to ensure comprehensive workforce support.