Common RMI Symptoms and Conditions

Injury Risks for Health Care Workers

• Injuries often stem from repeated poor practices over time.
• Aging increases susceptibility to workplace injuries.

Risk Factors for Injury

• Poor posture and body mechanics contribute significantly.
• Low fitness levels and obesity are critical physical risk factors.
• Psychological stress also plays a role, including both mechanical and psychological aspects.

Best Preventive Practices

• Maintaining good posture and practicing proper body mechanics is essential.
• Regular exercise and stretching enhance flexibility and strength.
• Healthy nutrition habits help prevent weight gain and obesity.
• Stress reduction through lifestyle changes improves overall well-being.

Key Definitions

• Body Mechanics: Correct positioning and movements during tasks to minimize injury risk.
• Ergonomics: The science of designing workplaces to fit users' needs, ensuring comfort and safety.

Repetitive Motion Injuries (RMI)

• RMIs result from overuse of specific body parts, causing stress on tendons, nerves, and joints.
• Commonly affected areas include hands, arms, neck, and shoulders.
• Symptoms include inflammation, swelling, and pain.

Common Symptoms of RMI

• Persistent pain and discomfort.
• Numbness, coldness, or loss of sensation in affected areas.
• Swelling or redness in injured areas.
• Impaired range of motion (ROM).
• Weakness or lack of coordination in the affected region.

Most Common RMIs

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Characterized by numbness, tingling, or pain typically in the hands and wrists.

General Principles for Injury Prevention

• Utilize larger joints and muscles for lifting and movement.
• Avoid static positions; take breaks every 20-30 minutes to move around.
• Stop or adjust tasks immediately if pain manifests.
• Apply recommended supports or ergonomic tools as needed.
• Seek prompt treatment for any injuries.

Proper Body Mechanics Guidelines

• Sitting: Keep back straight with head and shoulders aligned over hips.
• Standing/Walking: Maintain neutral neck position, wear supportive shoes, and shift weight frequently.
• Lifting: Maintain close body contact with heavy items, use leg muscles for power, and position feet 6-8 inches apart for stability.

Computer Ergonomics

• Proper wrist position is crucial; keep wrists straight and neutral while using a mouse to prevent RMIs.

Environmental Safety in Healthcare

• Identify and correct potential hazards to maintain safety.
• Compliance with OSHA policies is vital for workplace safety among health care workers.

Health Care Hazards

• Various hazards include chemical, environmental, ergonomic, infectious, physical, and workplace violence risks.

Safety Guidelines for Health Care Workers

• Prioritize prevention; don’t perform procedures without proper training.
• Protect oneself and colleagues through adherence to safety protocols and standard precautions.