Prevalence of self-reported symptoms compatible with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) among employees at a neonatal intensive care unit: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a significant work-related disease. Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of symptoms possibly related to CTS in workers in a neonatal intensive care unit. Methods: The self-administered INRS questionnaire for musculoskeletal symptoms was distributed to all 41 employees of a neonatal intensive care unit and to an appropriate sample of 82 employees of a paediatric emergency department and an adult intensive care unit. Results: Employees of the neonatal intensive care unit recorded a significantly higher prevalence of symptoms potentially related to CTS in comparison with the reference group (58.5% vs 8.3%, respectively; p<0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated that work in the neonatal intensive care unit was independently associated with the risk of symptoms potentially related to CTS. Conclusions: The results provide some evidence for a higher prevalence of symptoms potentially related to CTS in nursing personnel of a neonatal intensive care unit. Further research work is needed to prove a causal association.