Prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms among nurses: a multicenter cross-sectional study in Bahrain

Objectives. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms among nurses in Bahrain and determine the factors that contribute to the occurrence of these symptoms. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from a convenience sample of 550 nurses working in three hospitals in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms in the last 12 months was assessed using the self-administered Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire (NMQ). Results. A total of 550 nurses participated in the study. Most were females (n = 488, 89.1%) between 31 and 40 years of age (n = 239, 43.8%). The overall self-reported prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints of all joints in the past 12 months was 88.1%. The highest prevalence was in the lower back (72.3%), followed by the shoulder (52.8%) and the neck (49%). The lowest prevalence was the elbow (12.1%). The prevalence of lower back symptoms was significantly associated with age (p < 0.001), coexisting medical conditions (p < 0.001), area of practice (p < 0.001), number of tasks (p < 0.001) and types of shifts (p < 0.001). Conclusion. The findings indicate a high prevalence of symptoms among nurses. There is a need to implement strategies in healthcare facilities to improve working environment conditions and reduce the prevalence rate.