Occupational health hazard: carpal tunnel syndrome

Semin Perioper Nurs. 1997 Apr;6(2):105-10.

Abstract

A significant portion of the American population today is exposed to computer-related illnesses. One of the most common injuries is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Perioperative nurses will become increasingly exposed to computer-related illnesses with the advent of computerized patient record systems. Economic loss, physical disability, and emotional distress are frequent outcomes of computer-related illnesses. Federal legislation addressing preventive measures is currently nonexistent. Clinicians, as both employers and consumers of computer technology, must address computer-related illnesses, such as CTS, through identification of related risk factors, early symptoms, implementation of ergonomic measures, and support of federal and industrial safety standards.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / etiology*
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / prevention & control
  • Computer Terminals*
  • Ergonomics
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Medical Records Systems, Computerized*
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital*
  • Occupational Diseases / etiology*
  • Occupational Diseases / prevention & control
  • Operating Room Nursing*