Evaluating Ergonomics Training in Ophthalmology Residency: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Education
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Slit lamp examinations (SLEs) demand sustained focus and precise positioning, leading to potential poor posture among residents without formal ergonomics training.
• Early development of poor posture habits can negatively impact resident well-being and healthcare system safety.
• Targeted interventions during residency can promote safer examination techniques and reduce provider injury risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the short-term impact of a structured ergonomics education protocol on the posture of ophthalmology residents during SLEs.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of integrating ergonomics training into ophthalmology residency curricula.

Main Methods:

• A single-center pilot quality improvement study involving seven ophthalmology residents.
• Baseline posture assessment using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) scale, with higher scores indicating greater musculoskeletal risk.
• Random assignment to an intervention group (n=4) receiving ergonomics training or a control group (n=3) receiving no additional training.

Main Results:

• Mean REBA scores significantly decreased in the intervention group (p < 0.0001) after completing the ergonomics training.
• No significant change in REBA scores was observed in the control group (p = 0.4).
• The intervention group showed improved posture during SLEs, indicating reduced musculoskeletal risk.

Conclusions:

• A structured ergonomics education intervention was associated with improved resident posture during SLEs.
• The findings support the value of incorporating low-cost ergonomics training into ophthalmology residency programs.
• This intervention may be transferable to other procedural specialties to promote occupational health and sustainable practice habits.