An Ergonomic Risk Assessment of Ophthalmology Residents Using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) Scale

Area of Science:

• Occupational health and safety
• Musculoskeletal disorder research
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• The healthcare sector experiences high rates of work-related injuries.
• Ophthalmologists are particularly susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to repetitive tasks like slit lamp examinations.
• The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) scale quantifies ergonomic risk, with scores from 1 (negligible) to 11+ (very high).

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the average ergonomic risk experienced by ophthalmology residents during slit lamp examinations.
• To quantify this risk using the established REBA scale.
• To identify potential areas for intervention in residency training.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive case study was conducted involving four ophthalmology residents.
• Photographs were captured during slit lamp examinations to evaluate posture.
• REBA scores, including overall scores and components A (trunk, neck, legs) and B (arms, wrists), were calculated and compared.

Main Results:

• The average REBA score among participants was 4.59 (SD±0.89), indicating a moderate to high risk level.
• Individual REBA scores ranged from 3.00 to 7.00.
• Average component scores were 3.54 (SD±0.74) for Score A (posture) and 3.18 (SD±1.22) for Score B (upper extremity posture).

Conclusions:

• Ophthalmology residents exhibit an elevated risk of developing MSDs.
• There is notable variability in ergonomic risk among residents, suggesting unequal exposure.
• Ophthalmology residency programs should consider incorporating specific ergonomics training into their curricula.