SONOGRAPHERS KNOWLEDGE ON THE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF WORK RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS IN NORTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are common among health workers in all ages across all socio-demographic strata of the society and it has significant impact on Sonographers. They are a group of painful disorders of muscles, tendons, and nerves with impact on all aspects of life through pain and by limiting activities of daily living typically by affecting dexterity and mobility. This study is a cross-sectional survey design aimed at determining the knowledge of sonographers on the prevention and management of WMSDs in North Eastern Nigeria. A total of 52 copies of 18 1tem self-administered, structured and pretested questionnaires were distributed to sonographers. Items include demographic information, section on knowledge of prevention and management of WMSDs. The study showed the same result 26(50%) for those who exercise and those who do not exercise in between examination. 29(55.8%) of the respondents do not use height adjustable couch during scanning, 40(76.9%) use finger grip to hold the transducer while 23(12%) do not use finger grip. Majority 41(78%)of the respondents change scanning position between examinations while 22(11%) do not change scanning position between examinations. 48(25%) of the respondents carry out the same examination always while 51(27%) responded no.32(61%) respondents take short but frequent breaks from scanning while 38(20%) did not take breaks. 39(75%) of sonographers take responsibility to address personal work load while 13(25%) do not address personal work load. Sonographers have good knowledge of the prevention and management of WMSDs, however, general awareness and regular trainings are recommended in order to avoid occurrence.