E5267. Insidious Injuries of Diagnostic Radiology and How to Prevent Them: A Primer on Workstation Ergonomics and Repetitive Strain
Authors
Sankalp Goberdhan Goberdhan;
HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital
Albert Xing;
HCA Florida Brandon Hospital
Nolan Otto;
HCA Florida Blake Hospital
Brandon Hanai;
HCA Florida Trinity Hospital
Khaled Abdelghany;
HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital
Karan Ravi;
University of Central Florida College of Medicine
Craig Johnson;
Nemours Children's Hospital; University of Central Florida College of Medicine
Background
Radiologists have been working from home much more in the last several years, especially since the pandemic. Radiologists are at an increased risk of being sedentary and sustaining repetitive strain injuries (RSI). Increasing case volumes, pressure to report quickly, and an emphasis on RVUs keep radiologists at their workstations for longer periods of time, increasing time spent being sedentary at work. Furthermore, there is currently no regulation of home workstation ergonomics. When compared to nonradiologists in a work systems analysis, it was found that radiologists spend less time using a keyboard and more time using a mouse while using a computer. As a result, RSIs are widespread within radiology and certain radiological specialties are more prone to specific RSIs than others. Consequently, radiologists react positively to institutional ergonomic interventions.
Educational Goals / Teaching Points
In this exhibit, we will teach the basics of ergonomics, focusing on relevance and applications to diagnostic radiology. We will discuss common RSIs for radiologists, what factors are in our control, and how to prevent common issues caused by increased sedentariness and nonoptimal ergonomic setups. Influenceable environmental factors to be elaborated on include the mouse, keyboard, lighting, dictaphone, telephone, soundproofing, and airflow. Individual factors such as posture, voice use, and intermittent activity will then be discussed. Finally, possible interventions from the individual and group levels will be delineated, through a home workstation construction guide and ergonomics educational activities to be implemented by radiology residency programs.
Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
Not applicable.
Conclusion
This exhibit aims to be a primer for radiologists to understand and apply ergonomic principles at the reading station to reduce RSI.
