Work - Volume 74, issue 4

Authors: Soyuer, Ferhan | Cankurtaran, Feyzan | Menevşe, Özlem | Zararsız, Gözde Ertürk

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Aging is a process that includes progressive physiological changes. Grip strength is an important indicator of current health in the elderly. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to examine the correlation between dominant-hand grip strength (HGS) and cognitive function, mid-upper arm circumference, muscle-bone mass, balance, mobility, and daily life activities in elderly individuals living in nursing homes and determine the effect rates of these factors on HGS. METHODS: Seventy-two elderly individuals aged over 65 who lived in a nursing home were included in the study. Dominant HGS and mid-upper forearm circumference were measured. Muscle …and bone masses were measured with bioelectrical impedance analysis. Mid-upper arm circumference was measured using a non-elastic tape. HGS was measured using a hand dynamometer. Cognitive function was evaluated with the Standardized Mini-Mental Test (SMMT); mobility and balance were evaluated with the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS); the Katz Activities of Daily Living Scale (KATZ ADL) was used to evaluate daily life activities. RESULTS: There was a significant correlation between HGS and muscle and bone masses (p  < 0.001). A significant correlation was found between HGS and TUGT, ADL (p  = 0.001, p  = 0.016). There was no significant correlation between HGS and BBS (p  = 0.2). There was a correlation between HGS and SMMT at the statistical significance limit (p  = 0.055). On HGS, the Body Mass Index had a 64.9% effect; the muscle mass had a 30.9% effect; the TUGT had a 27.7% effect. These parameters were found to explain 59.9% of the variance. CONCLUSION: As a global indicator of muscle strength, HGS can be used to predict age-related functional changes. Approaches to increase physical activity levels in elderly can be effective in reducing age-related negativities. Show more

Keywords: Grip strength, geriatric, anthropometric, function, balance, mobility

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205075

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1371-1378, 2023

Authors: Intolo, Pattariya | Dailey, Matthew N. | Rodamporn, Somphop | Sirichaiwatjanadeacha, Kodchanach | Tabhom, Nattamon | Sutaro, Punyavee

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Smartphones are very convenient and accessible communication devices. Smartphone usage over long durations with poor posture can lead to musculoskeletal pain in adult users. OBJECTIVE: To compare pain in the neck, shoulder, upper back, lower back, arm, hand, and eye regions. METHODS: Thirty-five asymptomatic adults aged 18-25 years were divided into two groups: 1. use of an innovative smartphone app for the promotion of ergonomic behaviour (app use) and 2. no use of the innovative smartphone app (no app use). Participants sat upright, holding a smartphone with two hands, eyes 30-40 cm away from the screen, …with frequent breaks consisting of stretching the neck and hand muscles while resting the eyes. The task involved taking part in online social networking for a duration of 45 minutes. A body pain chart and the visual analog scale (VAS) were used to evaluate the location and severity of pain. RESULTS: Pain in the neck, shoulder, upper back, arm, and hand regions in the “app use” condition were significantly lower than in the “no app use” condition at 15, 30, and 45 min (p -value<0.05). However, there were negligible differences between the two groups for eye pain, and lower back pain. CONCLUSION: Pain in the neck, shoulder, upper back, and arm regions in adult users in the “app use” condition was less than in the “no app use” condition. We would recommend that adults use the innovative smartphone app to prevent the risk of musculoskeletal pain potentially caused by smartphone usage. Show more

Keywords: Adults, smartphone app, posture, pain, sitting upright

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210043

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1379-1389, 2023

Authors: Kalteh, Haji Omid | Samaei, Seyed Ehsan | Mokarami, Hamidreza | Ghalenoei, Mehran | Akbarian, Nadali | Taban, Ebrahim

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Job-related psychosocial factors have a substantial effect on the occurrence of adverse events among healthcare professionals. OBJECTIVE: An analytical and descriptive survey was conducted to evaluate the relationship between the occurrence of patient safety incidents and psychological factors. METHODS: The study sample consisted of 177 nurses who were asked about patient safety events over six months. Repetitive patient safety incidents were selected by examining medical records and interviewing specialists. Also, psychological factors were assessed using job content questionnaire (JCQ). RESULTS: Repetitive patient safety incidents were involved medication administration error, pressure ulcer and skin-muscular …injuries, patient falls, inability to CPR patients, blood transfusion reactions, and death due to human error. The findings showed that 92 participants (52%) had at least one case of patient safety incident. Among patient safety incidents, medication administration error and death due to human error had the highest and lowest repletion, respectively. Nurses training, job insecurity and peer support were significant predictors of different aspects of patient safety (p  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Proper collaboration between new and experienced nurses can have a significant impact to reduce patient safety incidents. In addition, nursing training can be a good way to understand risk points in medical errors. Show more

Keywords: Safety patient, nurse, job content, psychosocial factors, medical errors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210086

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1391-1399, 2023

Authors: Otte, Thomas | Decuman, Saskia | Gelade, Wouter | Duyver, Corentin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is willingness in Europe to implement the use of a biopsychosocial model such as the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) for assessing work incapacity. OBJECTIVE: A preliminary study was conducted to investigate the perceptions of medical advisers on the value of structuring clients’ biopsychosocial information in an ICF-based report. METHOD: A sample (n  = 101) received a perception questionnaire after watching two comparative videos based on a clinical case. Questions relating to work incapacity were also asked. The data was analysed using quantitative methods. Comments were also collected. RESULTS: Before …knowing the ICF-based report, 61.96% of the respondents believed a return to work seems possible by providing adapted work or a different job. There is an increase of 8.69 pp (p-value: 0.077) after reading the report. Opening up the initial sample to more insurance physicians (n  = 119), the difference is more significant (p-value: 0.012). Also, 71.9% of respondents believe they have a better view of the client’s biopsychosocial situation after reading the report. Respondents recognise the clinical and diagnostic relevance of ICF but say it cannot be used at the moment for various reasons, such as the time required or the need for a multidisciplinary team and effective coordination. Older respondents are less enthusiastic about the appropriateness of using ICF. CONCLUSION: The respondents identify an added value in having a biopsychosocial based-report. After learning about the report, more physicians see opportunities for professional re-integration than before. The medical advisers and their team must be strengthened and receive a clear role in order to empower them. Show more

Keywords: International classification of functioning, disability and health, work capacity evaluation, occupational therapy, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210247

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1401-1418, 2023

Authors: Estrázulas, Jansen Atier | Estrázulas, Jaisson Agne | Gheller, Rodrigo Ghedini | Gadotti, Inae Caroline | Moro, Antônio Renato Pereira | Vieira, Edgar Ramos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Backpacks used by children is a global concern, because may cause musculoskeletal discomforts and pain. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to test the usability and effects on gait kinematics wearing the Trunkpack versus a traditional backpack and no backpack. METHODS: Twenty-four children (9 to 11 years old) from a public school participated in this study. The usability was evaluated after a five-week testing period using a questionnaire. Gait kinematics was evaluated (Vicon) when the children were wearing a standard backpack, an optimized backpack (Trunkpack), and no backpack. Both backpacks were loaded with 10% …of body weight. RESULTS: Was observed more trunk, hip and knee flexion when the children carried a standard backpack in comparison using the Trunkpack and not carrying a backpack (p  < 0.01). The Trunkpack and no backpack were similar. The Trunkpack was well accepted by the schoolchildren (81% positive responses), 79% liked the head opening, 88% liked the waist straps, and 83% liked the facility to put and take objects in and out of the Trunkpack. CONCLUSION: Trunkpack requires less postural adjustments during gait than a standard backpack. Gait kinematics with the Trunkpack was comparable to the gait without carrying a backpack. Show more

Keywords: Usability, biomechanics, ergonomics, children, backpack

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210261

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1419-1427, 2023

Authors: Aladag, Omer | Altinpinar, Ishak

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: New technologies for ships affect many aspects of seafarers’ lives at work. Nowadays, many shipowners provide their ships with internet access for the personal use of the crew. After all these developments, nomophobia is no longer a phenomenon far from seafarers. Nomophobia affects mental health and motivation in seafarers, like all people who can use smartphones. Until now, there has been no study investigating nomophobia in seafarers and its effects on life at sea. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of nomophobia among seafarers and examine the causes and consequences of differences between groups. …METHODS: A previously designed and tested questionnaire was used to determine nomophobia and its effects on seafarers. Three hundred fifty one seafarers participated in the study. ANOVA and T-tests were performed with SPSS 22 package program to find significant differences. RESULTS: Nomophobia differed significantly according to age groups, gender, and education level. Headache and fatigue increased in direct proportion to the level of nomophobia. CONCLUSION: It was found that 65.2% of the seafarers had moderate to severe nomophobia. Show more

Keywords: Mobile phone, addiction, workplace safety, seafarers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210948

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1429-1435, 2023

Authors: Izadi, Nazanin | Saraie, Maryam | Aminian, Omid | Forouzan, Nazanin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Occupational stress is one of the most important factors affecting nurse performance. However, there is a lack of data about the association between occupational stress and performance. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the occupational stress level and its association with job performance in hospital staff. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 hospital staff of Tehran University of medical sciences in 2018. Subjects completed the World Health Organization Health and Work Performance questionnaire (WHO HPQ) for demographic and occupational characteristics, and the Short Form of Copenhagen questionnaire. RESULTS: …The demand and individual interface domain received the highest and the lowest score of occupational stress respectively. We found that the median for absenteeism distribution was 16 hours and, in our study, less than 10 % of the nurses had low performance. Working in intensive care units, fewer night shifts, higher income, higher levels of vitality, and social support could decrease absenteeism. In addition, staff who felt more supported and reported lower emotional demands had higher performance. CONCLUSION: Since higher levels of social support could have positive influences on reducing absenteeism and improving performance, it is recommended that hospital managers should be encouraged to use educational programs, coping behaviors, and effective interventions to improve social support. Financial incentives are a factor that could also be used to reduce absenteeism. Show more

Keywords: Occupational stress, nurse, work performance, absenteeism, presenteeism

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211015

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1437-1445, 2023

Authors: Buuck, Sabine | Voll, Stefan | Jansen, Petra

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The findings of the effectiveness of physical activity on adults’ cognitive abilities have not yet been transferred into corresponding fields of application. OBJECTIVE: The present study evaluates a motor-cognitive coordination programme in a company to improve employees’ cognitive performance in the short and medium term. METHODS: A total of 67 employees — 32 men and 35 women aged between 19 and 61 years — participated in this study, and 55 completed the study. The sample was randomly divided into an experimental group, which received a motor-cognitive coordination training, and a control group, which received a …relaxation and mobility training. Both groups met for 15-minute sessions three times a week for eight weeks. Before and after the intervention, working memory, attention, information-processing capacity, divergent thinking, and mood were measured. In addition, acute effects regarding attention and mood were tested. RESULTS: The results showed that the motor-cognitive coordination break improves working memory and divergent thinking after eight weeks of intervention, whereas neither the mood nor the information processing speed improved more for the experimental group compared to the control group. The results on the acute increase in attention performance failed to reach significance. CONCLUSION: The new approach of this study was not only the derivation and development of targeted exercises, but also their testing and evaluation in the field of application. Motor-cognitive coordination exercise in the workplace might play an important role in both occupational health management and personnel development, especially for companies that are under highly competitive and innovative pressure. Show more

Keywords: Exercise, workplace health promotion, coordination training, cognition, executive functions, working memory, divergent thinking

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211206

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1447-1460, 2023

Authors: Dewangan, K.N. | Patel, Thaneswer | Vidhu, K.P. | Khumukcham, B.S. | Lusang, I. | Sumpi, N. | Yudik, L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The hand anthropometric data is the baseline for design of hand tools and equipment. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to generate the hand anthropometric database of male and female agricultural workers and compare it with the hand anthropometric data of other regions of India. The use of collected data is illustrated to design hand tools and protective gear. METHODS: Hand anthropometric data were collected from 228 male and 198 female agricultural workers of northeast India. A total of 35 hand dimensions, stature and body mass from different tribes in the age group of 18–60 years were …precisely measured. Measured data were statistically analysed to study the effects of gender, ethnicity, and age on hand dimensions. Correlation coefficients were determined among hand dimensions and linear regression equations were developed between highly correlated dimensions. RESULTS: The results show that all hand dimensions of the male and female subjects are significantly different (p  < 0.01). Most of the hand dimensions were significantly different (p  < 0.05) among different tribes for the male subjects. However, less number of hand dimensions were significantly different among tribes for the female subjects. Age of the subjects has significant effects (p  < 0.01) on dimensions related to thickness, depth and circumference of fingers. The use of these data in the ergonomic design of hand tools and personal protective gear is illustrated to increase safety and comfort as well as efficiency of operators. CONCLUSION: There is a difference in the hand dimensions of different tribes of northeast India. This needs to be considered when designing agricultural hand tools and equipment. Show more

Keywords: Hand anthropometric survey, hand dimensions, gender and ethnic variations, farmers, design of hand tools, PPE

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211238

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1461-1480, 2023

Authors: Karatrantou, Konstantina | Gerodimos, Vassilis

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: One of the most important steps for the successful designing, execution, and sustainability of a workplace wellness program is the evaluation stage. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this research was to create a comprehensive wellness profile through selected and reliable testing protocols used for the evaluation of health, functional capacity, and physical fitness in office employees. METHODS: One hundred office employees (32–55year-old) were evaluated to create a comprehensive wellness profile. Health indices (body composition, blood pressure, respiratory function, lipidemic profile), musculoskeletal pains, functional capacity, physical fitness (cervical, handgrip, back, leg strength, cardiorespiratory fitness), and lifestyle behaviors …(physical activity levels, viewing habits, smoking, alcohol consumption) were measured. Thirty of the participants performed two assessment sessions to examine the reliability of functional capacity and physical fitness indices. RESULTS: A significant proportion of employees were overweight (40.7%) and obese (18.5%). The largest percentage of employees (78%) presented musculoskeletal problems in various areas of the body (higher rates in lower back, neck, and/or hip). A large percentage of the employees (40–65%) showed low-moderate levels in selected indices of health, physical activity (<6000 steps/day), functional capacity and physical fitness, and high levels of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. The test-retest reliability for the assessment of functional capacity and physical fitness profile was high for all testing variables (ICC = 0.92-0.99; SEM%  = 2.5–4.5). CONCLUSION: The testing protocols are reliable and can be used in conjunction with the reference values created to evaluate selected health and wellness indicators in office-employees. Show more

Keywords: Physical activity, workplace, lifestyle behaviors, testing – evaluation, productivity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211292

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1481-1489, 2023