ergonomics and musculoskeletal issues

inflammation of the tendon and the sheath around the tendon

tendonitis and tenosynovitis

specific type of tendinitis involving the thumb that can result from gripping the transducer too hard

De Quervains disease

entrapment of the median nerve as it runs through the carpool bones of the wrist

carpal tunnel

repeated flexions and extensions of the wrist and from mechanical pressures against the wrist

how you get carpal tunnel

entrapment of the ulnar nerve as it runs through the elbow

cubital tunnel

repeated twisting of the forearm and mechanical pressure against the elbow when rested on the examination table while scanning

how you get cubital tunnel

further away from the body

abduction

Bring things closer together

abduction

repeated, twisting of forearm may cause

epicondylitis

inflammation of the shoulder bursa from repeated motion

bursitis

nerve entrapment can occur at different levels, resulting from a variety of symptoms

thoracic outlet syndrome

inflammation and swelling of the tendon sheath and a finger that restricts motion

trigger finger

fraying of the rotator cuff muscle tendons

rotator cuff injury

repeated arm abduction, contributes to this injury by restricting blood flow to the soft tissue of the shoulder

The cause of rotator cuff injury

vertebral disc degeneration results from bending and twisting and improper seating

spinal degeneration

Study of the relationship between people and they’re working environment, especially the equipment they use

ergonomics

most important factor for reducing risk of back injury among healthcare workers

eliminating manual lifting of patients

any persistent pain should be

reported and documented to employer and seek medical advice

employer should perform

annual risk assessments

identify risk factors for muscular skeletal disorders related to the ultrasound process

annual risk assessment

The only person who can control work postures and behaviors

me

what does WRMSD stand for?

work related muscular skeletal disorder

a 2008 study showed

WRMSD increased to 90%

where industry specifics do not exist regarding workplace safety conditions

The general duty clause is used

which ultrasound equipment should be height adjustable

Control panel, beds, monitor chairs, and exam table

how should sonographers keep their wrist while using a transducer?

neutral, straight

is exam area relevant to preventing WRMSD

yes

what are injuries associated with WRMSD

awkward posture, repetitive motions, pinch grip

Who can improve the risk for work related injury in the ultrasound profession?

equipment companies/manufacturers, employers, and sonographers

when scanning what position should you avoid for your arm?

arm abduction, reaching

exams should be scheduled to prevent repetition of the same type of examination back to back

true

schedule should allow enough _____ between studies for muscle recovery

time

allow for mini breaks to

relax muscles and stretch

share _____ with other staff

bedside examination