Knowledge of Ergonomics among nursing staff, Absenteeism and the Economic Consequences of Absenteeism

Abstract

Knowledge of ergonomics and the use of equipment to prevent and alleviate musculoskeletal problems helps to reduce absenteeism, increase and improve worker productivity, and thus reduce the economic burden on the employer. The aim of the study was to determine the knowledge and consideration of ergonomics among the nursing staff of the General Hospital Novo mesto and how they perceive the health and economic consequences of non-compliance with ergonomic principles. In-depth interviews were conducted with ten skilled nursing personnel employed in different departments of General Hospital Novo mesto. The results showed that the majority of interviewees do not know how to define the concept of ergonomics and that the use of ergonomic equipment is inappropriate because respondents do not use it consistently due to lack of time or because it is not available to them. Research has shown that healthcare professionals have major problems with musculoskeletal disorders due to the way they work. The use of ergonomic equipment reduces the likelihood of absenteeism due to musculoskeletal disorders, which has a positive impact on the financial status of the worker, and our respondents are aware of the indirect impact of absenteeism on their economic situation.