Reducing Lower Back Pain by Providing Training for Nurses Working for Nursing Home

Abstract

Problem statement: The problem identified from clinical practice is that there are many incidences of sick leave and absenteeism due to back pain that are experienced by nurses in the nursing home and one contributing cause is improper use of manual handling. Background: One of the most prevalent ailments requiring medical care is low back pain (LBP), and the most common musculoskeletal disorder. Evidence shows that 75% of nurses in Finland experience low back pain. Aim and objective: The aim of this quality improvement project is to decrease the number of back pain cases by fifty (50 %) percent among nurses in a nursing home by October 2024 by providing staff training. The objective of this proposed project is to introduce and utilize ergonomic tools such as electric adjustable beds and chairs, slide sheets, and compression stocking slides through training of nurses. Measurement: A self-report survey on lower back pain collects data on how frequently nurses experience lower back pain when performing nursing care using electric adjustable beds and chairs, sliding sheets, and compression stocking slides. Self-developed instrument will be used through Google form. Design: The design to be used in this quality improvement project will be the model of improvement. The model of improvement is a framework that uses PDSA (Plan Do, Study, Act) cycle allowing a test of change. Strategy: The main intervention of this quality improvement project is providing staff training on nurses working for the nursing home with the usage of ergonomic tools such as electric adjustable beds and chairs, sliding sheets and compression stocking slides. This allows acquisition of knowledge, skills, and updates with regards to manual handling techniques with ergonomics tools usage Data Analysis: A run chart will be used to analyze data collected on how much variation there is in the process over time. Conclusion: Safety is a top priority, not just for our patients, residents, or clients, but also for the nurses who meet their needs and demands. Nurses are the frontlines and so-called "new generation heroes" in this era, thus it is essential that we show them the reverence that they deserve.