CHICAGO―The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc. (SGNA) this month released a position statement called Ergonomics in the Gastroenterology Setting. In response to nursing having among the highest incidences of work-related musculoskeletal injuries, SGNA’s statement supports the implementation of an ergonomically safe working environment for gastroenterology professionals.
This position statement outlines recommendations for how GI/endoscopy units can develop a plan to reduce risk and create a safer workplace.
Gastroenterology nurses may injure muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage and spinal discs while on the job. For example, injuries may occur when using forceps, maintaining awkward postures for certain procedures and during patient-handling tasks. Complex endoscopy procedures that require the nurses and associates to use repetitive motion, such as those used during ERCP, may also cause musculoskeletal injury.
The SGNA Ergonomics in the Gastroenterology Setting position statement lists administrative controls (such as training staff on the use of safe patient-handling techniques), engineering controls (such as ensuring that rooms are properly lit), and behavior and work practice controls (such as rotating staff roles to minimize repetitious motion injuries) to prevent common musculoskeletal injuries in the gastroenterology setting.
To read the Ergonomics in the Gastroenterology Setting position statement in full, click here.
Before they reach the public, SGNA position statements undergo a rigorous board approval and copyediting process to ensure accuracy and clarity.
The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc. is a professional organization of nurses and associates dedicated to the safe and effective practice of gastroenterology and endoscopy nursing. SGNA carries out its mission by advancing the science and practice of gastroenterology and endoscopy nursing through education, research and collaboration, and by promoting the professional development of its members in an atmosphere of mutual support.
