Prevalence and factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorder among Central Sterile Supply Technicians in Thailand

Abstract

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to examine the prevalence and factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders among central sterile supply technicians in Thailand. Methods A cross-sectional study was administered to CSSTs regarding WRMSDs. Technicians were questioned about the presence and severity of disorders throughout the whole body during the sterilization procedure. The survey was sent to the Central Sterilize Supply Department of 33 centers in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand. Results The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in various body regions was assessed among technicians at the time of questioning (86.0%), during the week (64.2%), and over one year (59.2%). Workers who had been central sterile supply technicians for over 30 years were factored into the assessment of musculoskeletal disorders (OR 8.710, 95% CI 1.444–6.287). CSSTs were also significantly associated with more than ten years of employment (OR 7.859, 95% CI 1.299–5.008). Day shifts (OR 19.196, 95% CI 0.123–0.459), heavy load handling (OR 70.089, 95% CI 10.756-153.554), lifting of instruments (OR 2.007, 95% CI 1.401–5.516), transporting equipment or carts (OR 2.986, 95% CI 1.890–7.273), pushing equipment or carts (OR 9.194, 95% CI 1.401–5.516), carrying instruments (OR 5.584, 95% CI 1.126–4.268), and uncomfortable postures (OR 7.652, 95% CI 1.383–7.570) were factors influencing the causality of musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusions These findings suggest that it would be beneficial to promote intervention programs for CSSTs based on the participatory ergonomic (PE) approach and coping methods for musculoskeletal illnesses.