Ultrasound ergonomics : scanning techniques leading to work-related musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract

Purpose: The introduction of ultrasound imaging as a diagnostic device has led to a global increase in the frequency of ultrasound use for medical diagnosis. This has resulted in a significant rise in the number of examinations and scanning hours for the sonographers, leading to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) together with less time to perform ergonomic scanning techniques. This was the first study to be conducted in Malta investigating the ultrasound ergonomics; scanning techniques leading to WRMSDs.

Objectives: The study aimed to identify the scanning techniques leading to WRMSDs amongst postgraduate students and qualified radiographers working in ultrasound at the vascular, obstetrics and gynaecological department in a state general hospital in Malta. The participants’ suggestions for improvement strategies in ultrasound ergonomic strategies at the workplace were also acquired.

Methodology: Prior to conducting the research process ethical approval and permission to conduct the study were obtained from the Faculty Research Ethics Committee. A mixed methods approach using quantitative and qualitative methods, was considered appropriate by the researcher through the use of a self-designed questionnaire. Prior to data collection the tool was tested for validity and reliability. Data collection was performed from December 2018 to January 2019, by the end of which a sample size of 25 respondents was collected. Statistical tests were used to analyse the quantitative data while content analysis was used for the qualitative element of the data collection tool.

Results: The results showed that 96% of the respondents do understand the term ergonomics, but despite this understanding 72% scan in discomfort/pain. The mean rating score for each area of the body affected with discomfort/pain during scanning was analysed. A set of activities causing the discomfort/pain during scanning were also evaluated. The ultrasound room/unit and the ultrasound equipment were assessed in order to further identify the barriers in ultrasound ergonomics. The results were then correlated through statistical tests, with gender, specialty in ultrasound and the preferred scanning position of the respondents. The results indicated that the workload was the most observed barrier amongst the respondents leading to WRMSDs.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the respondents were scanning in discomfort/pain and despite this, such a factor was not always reported to the health and safety officer in charge. The respondents felt the need for ultrasound ergonomic awareness in their departments and therefore improvements in ergonomic strategies and ultrasound equipment would aid the sonographers to perform good ergonomic scanning leading to the prevention of WRMSDs.