ASGE Postgraduate Course at ACG: Evidence-based Updates for the Practicing Gastroenterologist | October 2021-3_Shergill

3_Shergill_ASGE Quality Ergonomics

Pdf Summary

This document discusses the importance of ergonomics for the endoscopy team and provides information on risk factors and methods for preventing and reducing ergonomic hazards. Ergonomics is the study of the fit between the physical demands of the workplace and the employees who perform the work. Risk factors for ergonomic injuries include vibration, repetition, environment, force, posture, work organization, and contact stress. Employers can prevent/reduce ergonomic hazards through engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment.<br /><br />Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), including work-related MSDs, are a common issue among endoscopists and their teams. The document provides data on the prevalence of injuries among endoscopists and highlights the risk factors associated with different tasks during endoscopy procedures. These risk factors include posture, carpal tunnel, repetition, force, and wrist tendonitis.<br /><br />To address these issues, the document recommends participative ergonomics, which involves involving the endoscopy team in decision-making processes related to ergonomics. It emphasizes the importance of management support and resource commitment. Ergonomics training is also recommended to increase awareness and provide tools for creating an inclusive work environment.<br /><br />Specific recommendations for reducing ergonomic risks in endoscopy include adjustable work environments, such as monitor height and bed height, as well as scheduled endoscope maintenance. Breaks and microbreaks are important for reducing the likelihood of endoscopy-related injuries.<br /><br />Overall, the document emphasizes the importance of considering ergonomics in the endoscopy team's work to prevent musculoskeletal injuries and maintain a high-quality endoscopy unit.

Keywords

ergonomics

endoscopy team

risk factors

ergonomic hazards

musculoskeletal disorders

work-related MSDs

prevalence of injuries

participative ergonomics

adjustable work environments

endoscope maintenance