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Ergonomot: An Ergonomic Promotion Program to Reduce the Risk of
Musculoskeletal Disorders

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P. Wongrattanatrakul, T. Kaewthummanukul, and K. Tantranont 2
Faculty of Nursing, Master of Nursing Science Program in Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner,
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2
Chiang Mai University, Thailand, and Faculty of Nursing, Public Health Nursing, Chiang Mai University,
Thailand

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), characterized by discomfort or pain in muscles, nerves,
tendons, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs, are common among the working population. These disorders are
significant occupational health concerns, often resulting from repetitive movements, poor posture, and
overexertion. Studies indicate that work-related MSDs cause substantial absenteeism, with over 28.4 million
working days lost annually in the UK alone due to neck, shoulder, and back disorders. Healthcare professionals,
including nurses, are particularly susceptible, with high prevalence rates of lower back pain and other MSDs
reported globally. These disorders significantly impact the quality of life and productivity, necessitating effective
prevention strategies. This highlights the need for effective interventions to improve occupational health and
enhance the quality of life for healthcare workers.

Oral Presentation Abstracts
Objective: This study aims to develop and evaluate the Ergonomot program, an ergonomic promotion
initiative designed to reduce the risk of MSDs among operating room nurses.

Methods: The Ergonomot program utilized the O’Donnell health promotion strategy, comprising three
activities: increase awareness, behavioral modification, and supportive environment. The program was
delivered via the Line Official application and included educational content on ergonomic practices and
exercises to mitigate MSD risks.

The program involved pre and post training assessments, educational sessions on ergonomics, exercise
demonstrations, and continuous follow-up through online channels. Participants were encouraged to
engage in physical activities and adopt ergonomic practices.

Results: Following the implementation of Ergonomot, there were a notable increasing in ergonomic
awareness and knowledge among participants. The program also improve ergonomic behaviors and
reduce musculoskeletal discomfort. Specifically, the prevalence of neck, shoulder, and back pain
decreased significantly among the participants.

Conclusion: The Ergonomot program effectively raise awareness and altere behaviors related to ergonomics,
leading to a reduction in MSDs among operating room nurses. This program demonstrates the potential for
mobile health interventions to enhance occupational health in healthcare settings.

Keywords: ergonomic, health promotion program, musculoskeletal disorders

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Correspondence: Palat Wongrattanatrakul, Faculty of Nursing, Master of Nursing Science Program in
Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
E-mail: palat_w@hotmail.com

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