Assessment of the Incidence of LBP among Nurses Working at Level 5 Hospitals in Kiambu County

Abstract

Pain serves as an unconscious warning to prevent injury, and LBP (low back pain) is a common issue occurring below the 12th rib and above the gluteal folds. The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 report identified LBP as a major musculoskeletal condition, accounting for 7.4% of years lived with disability. Despite its preventability, nurses continue to experience LBP, sometimes progressing to chronic stages. This study informs policies emphasizing prevention. Analytical cross-sectional design was used, involving nurses from accident/emergency, ICU, obstetrics/gynecology, medical/surgical, outpatient, pediatrics, renal units, and operating theatres. Participants were selected based on willingness and inclusion criteria. Data was collected via self-administered questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, proportions, percentages) were used, with a p-value of ≤0.05 considered significant. Associations were examined using the Chi-square test. Ethical approvals were obtained from Mount Kenya University Ethics and Research Committee, Kiambu County research and training committee, NACOSTI, and participating hospitals. Informed consent was obtained before questionnaire administration. Findings showed a statistical significance level (Sig.) of .000 for all test items, indicating a meaningful association between assessed factors and LBP incidence among nurses. The study highlights the multifaceted nature of LBP causes, stressing the need for policy implementation, resource allocation, and support systems in healthcare. Strategies should address heavy workloads, particularly patient handling, by ensuring adequate staffing and training in safe lifting. Additionally, developing individual health and fitness plans through education on lifting techniques, regular breaks, and wellness programs is crucial in mitigating LBP among nurses.