The prevalence of pain and its associated factors among Maltese healthcare workers : an online survey

Abstract

Background: Previous studies have shown that clinicians, such as physicians, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists, had a high prevalence of pain. It is unknown, nevertheless, how common pain is and how it affects medical professionals employed by the Maltese healthcare system. Aims: This study's main goal is to assess the prevalence of pain, the body areas most impacted by pain, and the effects of pain on doctors' quality of life and ability to function at work in Malta's acute state hospital. Methods: Professional leads and directors of physicians, nurses, and other allied health professionals employed by Malta's acute hospital disseminated an online survey. The period for gathering the data was November 2023–December 2023. Results: 258 clinicians responded to the survey, with 84 nurses, 72 doctors, and 102 Allied health professionals. The median age was 39.5 years, and median clinical experience was 15 years. 65.9% were female. 72% live with pain, with nurses experiencing the highest prevalence (76%). Females reported more pain. Back pain was most common (81.4%) and impacted work. Higher pain intensity significantly affected mobility (p<0.001), self-care (p<0.001), usual activities (p<0.001), perceived health (p<0.001), anxiety (p=0.015), and sleep quality (p=0.001). 39.1% reported at least 2 painful sites in the past year, with nurses reporting the highest number (median 2.0; IQR 0.0 to 3.0; p<0.001). Conclusion: This survey highlights the high prevalence and impact of pain which affects the quality of pain and work of the clinicians working within the main acute state-run hospital in Malta. Implications: The high prevalence of pain cannot be solely attributed to work; hence causation cannot be inferred. However occupational programs aiming to reduce the prevalence and impact of pain on the clinicians would be the next natural step.