Assessing Musculoskeletal Discomfort and Ergonomic Risks Among Healthcare Assistants at Operation Room: A...

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are prevalent among healthcare workers who perform physically demanding tasks in operation rooms. This study aimed to assess musculoskeletal discomfort and ergonomic risk, and to evaluate muscle activity associated with manual handling tasks among healthcare assistants at Mahasarakham Hospital, Thailand. A cross-sectional assessment was conducted among 20 participants using a musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaire, Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), and surface electromyography (EMG) of four bilateral muscles: Biceps brachii, Triceps brachii, Trapezius pars descendens, and Erector spinae. The results indicated a high prevalence of discomfort, particularly in the lower back (100%), upper back (95%), and knees (90%). REBA assessment resulted in a score of 13, classified as very high ergonomic risk. EMG findings showed the highest muscle activation in the Erector spinae and Trapezius pars descendens during lifting and transferring tasks, reflecting substantial static and dynamic loading of the trunk and shoulders, while the Biceps and Triceps brachii exhibited moderate activity consistent with their supportive role. These findings demonstrate that repetitive lifting through a 90-cm-high window imposes substantial ergonomic strain. Ergonomic interventions, including workstation redesign, assistive lifting devices, and targeted training, are recommended to reduce musculoskeletal fatigue and improve occupational safety in operation rooms.