Applying ergonomics to nurse computer workstations: review and recommendations.
Nursing is associated with high rates of musculoskeletal disorders from patient handling, and nurses are at high risk for developing cumulative trauma disorders, which can result from computer usage. Although there are many benefits to using computers in the workplace, nurses need to incorporate ergonomic factors into work settings to promote safe workplace environments. This article reviews recent literature about computer workstation ergonomics, discusses related policies, and makes recommendations about computer workstation design and related research in nursing workplace settings.
Nielsen
Karen
K
Computer Sciences Corporation, 6701 Democracy Boulevard, Suite 242, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA. nursenielsen@hotmail.com
Trinkoff
Alison
A
D016288:Computer Terminals / Q000592:standards*; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D004867:Equipment Design / Q000592:standards; D006804:Ergonomics / Q000379:methods*; D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings / Q000592:standards; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009740:Nursing Staff; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D016272:Occupational Health; D013997:Time Factors; D017132:Workplace