Ergonomics

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary goal of ergonomics?

To help people stay healthy while working effectively (correct)

To improve communication in the workplace

To design more comfortable furniture

To increase productivity at work

Which of the following is NOT considered a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD)?

Headaches

Back pain

Wrist pain

Shortness of breath (correct)

What are the three categories of risk factors contributing to MSDs?

Awkwardness, fatigue, and instability

Strength, endurance, and flexibility

Posture, repetition, and force (correct)

Pressure, weight, and duration

What is meant by the term 'neutral position'?

Sitting upright with weight evenly distributed Signup and view all the answers

What increases the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Repetitive and forceful wrist motion Signup and view all the answers

How can one reduce eyestrain during prolonged tasks?

Look up and focus at a distance for 20 seconds Signup and view all the answers

Which exercise is recommended to relieve neck strain?

Full back release and head rotations Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the most effective ways to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome?

Resting the hands frequently Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following roles is particularly susceptible to MSDs due to awkward posture?

Clinical assistants Signup and view all the answers

What factors contribute to the development of low back pain for seated workers?

Improper chair selection and prolonged sitting Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended posture for an operator or administrative assistant's legs while working?

Feet should be flat on the floor or footrest. Signup and view all the answers

Which body parts should be in vertical alignment when the spine is properly aligned?

Ears, shoulders, and hips Signup and view all the answers

What is a common consequence of poor posture while assisting the dentist?

Aches and pains Signup and view all the answers

When assisting, where should frequently used items be positioned?

Within comfortable horizontal reach Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal adjustment for the operative light while working?

Adjust to the maximum vertical reach Signup and view all the answers

How should reaching be performed to prevent injury?

Reaching should only be done to the front. Signup and view all the answers

What position should the back be in for proper lumbar support?

Pressed against the chair Signup and view all the answers

What should the assistant do to maintain a neutral position while assisting?

Alternate between sitting and standing Signup and view all the answers

What type of tool placement is recommended for less frequently used supplies?

Placed within maximum horizontal reach Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of reaching for tools above shoulder level?

It can cause shoulder injury. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is about adapting a work environment to suit a human body
The goal of ergonomics is to maintain worker health while improving work effectiveness.

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)

MSDs include headaches, joint pain, and back, neck, wrist, and shoulder pain.
Posture, repetition, and force contribute to MSDs.

Posture

Neutral position: Sitting upright with feet flat on the floor, legs separated, back pressed against the chair, and hips leaning forward.
Normal horizontal reach: The reach created by moving the forearm with the upper arm at the side.
Safe vertical reach: The reach created by moving the forearm vertically with the elbow at the mid-torso level.

Repetition and Force

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Repetitive and forceful wrist motions can increase the risk, especially when force is required.

Reducing Strain

Eyestrain: Reduce eyestrain by looking up from the task and focusing on an object at a distance for 20 seconds.
Neck Strain: Full back release and head rotations can help.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: One of the most important preventive factors is resting your hands.

Key Factors for Dental Professionals

Many dental professionals experience MSDs.
Clinical assistants commonly experience pain due to sitting for prolonged periods.
Administrative assistants are vulnerable due to frequent phone use and computer work.
Maintaining neutral posture is essential for all dental professionals.
Avoid twisting, reaching behind your back, and lifting.
Rotate the dental chair to prevent twisting.
Keep frequently used items within a comfortable reach.
Maintain a safe reach for the operative light and other supplies.