title: Lateral epicondylitis in a hospital phlebotomist--an ergonomic solution.
abstract: This report outlines a case of lateral epicondylitis in a hospital phlebotomist thought to be due to the forceful gripping, and repetitive twisting, involved in breaking the seals on green vacutainer needles. An ergonomic solution in the form of a device to aid breaking of the vacutainer seals is presented. The importance of seeking ergonomic solutions with manufacturers is highlighted.
authors.affiliation: Occupational Health Department, Airedale General Hospital, Skipton Road, Steeton, Nr Keighley, West Yorkshire BD20 6TD, UK. NSmith2@bradford-ha.nhs.uk
authors.forename: N A
authors.initials: NA
authors.lastname: Smith
mesh_terms: D001800:Blood Specimen Collection / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009339:Needles; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010564:Personnel, Hospital; D013716:Tennis Elbow / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*