Employee perceived stress. Relationship to the development of repetitive strain injury symptoms

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), specifically carpal tunnel syndrome, are the fastest growing type of occupational injury. Research about precipitating factors and prevention has been controversial and inconclusive. Preventive measures typically have addressed ergonomic changes. The purpose of this research article is to describe the effects of several variables on the perceived development of RSI symptoms, particularly those of carpal tunnel syndrome. Emphasis was placed on the role of perceived stress. The study design was a descriptive survey using a nonprobability sampling method. The study focused on four variables related to perceptions of symptoms: 1) perceptions of level of knowledge related to the prevention of RSIs; 2) taking a specific action to make one's workstation more ergonomically correct; 3) perceptions of having ergonomically correct workstations; and 4) perceptions of being stressed. Study results indicated that perceived stress was significantly associated with perceived RSI symptoms. Workers who use a computer 4 or more hours per day reported significantly more symptoms than those who did not. At risk computer users who perceive an ergonomically correct workstation reported fewer symptoms. To prevent RSIs, occupational health nurses must address ergonomics, stress levels, and knowledge levels.