Musculoskeletal symptoms and occupational stress among nurses in a military hospital

In order to examine associations between musculoskeletal symptoms and occupational stress among nursing personnel at a military hospital, a descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in 127 nurses, without regard to age, years of service or history of congenital or acquired musculoskeletal abnormalities. After determining its validity and reliability, the Nordic Questionnaire was administered to the study population. Occupational stress was measured using the "Nursing Stress Scale". Results revealed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the preceding 12 months; neck pain, upper and lower back pain were most frequently reported. Occupational stress levels were mainly at the lower levels of the stress scale; however, a large number of persons were also at the critical level of this scale, and more frequently reported social labor stressors, problems with their supervisors, and not having the opportunity to speak freely with other job partners. With respect to psychological and physical stressors, lack of support, work overload, and difficulty dealing with patient death and suffering were the most relevant risk factors identified. There was a significant association between musculoskeletal symptoms, occupational stress and body mass index. We conclude that occupational stress is positively and significantly correlated with musculoskeletal symptoms, consistent with previous reports, and underscores the need for individual and organizational strategies to control and mitigate these occupational risk factors.