Ergonomic Challenges in the Perioperative Setting

Working in health care can be physically stressful. The perioperative setting, which is largely concealed from other health care workers and the general public, places unique physical demands on its workers. Perioperative personnel are responsible for a variety of physical tasks, including moving and positioning patients, holding extremities, and moving equipment and supplies. As the nursing workforce ages, the physical demands of the perioperative environment may affect the development of musculoskeletal disorders in older nurses. The purpose of this article is to review published research and describe the ergonomic challenges of working in the OR. There currently is a paucity of literature on the effects of ergonomic risk factors on perioperative nurses in the United States. This article also provides some recommendations for perioperative staff members and leaders that may assist them with creating and maintaining a healthy and safe work environment.