Abstract
Background
Grip strength is a crucial indicator of overall muscle strength and is important for the physical demands of nursing.
Objective
This study aims to examine the differences in grip strength between staff nurses and nursing students and to identify factors associated with grip strength in nursing sample.
Method
This descriptive and analytical study collected data from nursing students and staff nurses in Turkey, from May 1 to September 30, 2022. A total of 200 staff nurses and 200 nursing students participated. Data were collected using a participant information form, the Perceived Stress Scale-4 (PSS-4), and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Additionally, researchers recorded anthropometric measurements and assessed grip strength using a digital hand dynamometer.
Results
Grip strength was similar across groups, with nearly half (48.8%) meeting or exceeding Turkish normative values. 79.5% of staff nurses and 66.0% of nursing students reported musculoskeletal (MSK) issues in the last 12 months. Correlation analysis indicated that grip strength negatively correlated with stress level and musculoskeletal complaints. Multiple linear regression identified height, waist-to-hip ratio, and neck circumference as significant predictors of grip strength, explaining 57% of the variance.
Conclusion
Grip strength was similar between staff nurses and nursing students, despite differences in age, BMI, and musculoskeletal issues. Height, waist-to-hip ratio, and neck circumference are key predictors of grip strength in this Turkish nursing sample. Understanding the factors influencing grip strength can help in designing targeted interventions to maintain and improve muscle strength in nursing professionals.