Analysis of Ergonomic Risks Faced by the Nursing Staff of the Centro Geriatrico Integral Fuerza de Roble

Abstract

This article analyzes the ergonomic risks faced by the nursing staff of the Centro Geriátrico Integral Fuerza de Roble, located in the province of Pichincha, Ecuador. The study arises from the need to understand the working conditions of nursing personnel who care for older adults in long-term geriatric centers—a sector characterized by high physical demands and limited implementation of ergonomic prevention measures. The main objective is to identify the primary physical and postural risk factors present in the workplace and to evaluate the strategies adopted to mitigate them. The research followed a descriptive and qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews and direct observation with eight nurses from the geriatric center. The results revealed that, despite not being legally required to implement an occupational safety program, the center applies effective preventive practices, such as the use of lumbar support belts, the “half-sheet” patient transfer technique, and collaborative work in pairs. These measures have helped reduce physical strain and the incidence of musculoskeletal discomfort among the nursing staff. However, the study identified the absence of formal training and systematic ergonomic assessments, which limits the scope of current preventive actions. The findings suggest that ergonomic prevention in small healthcare institutions depends mainly on institutional commitment and staff participation. The experience of the Centro Geriátrico Integral Fuerza de Roble stands as an example of effective and replicable preventive management for similar institutions across the country.