The present study investigates the prevalence of work-related back pain (LBP) among nursing staff in long-term inpatient facilities. Back pain is among the most prevalent musculoskeletal complaints in the nursing profession, arising from physically demanding activities such as lifting, transferring, and mobilizing patients. The objective of this study is to examine the efficacy of the active exoskeleton HAL® lumbar type in reducing the load on the lower back, with the aim of preventing and allev
Conditions
Interventions
Group 1: In a recent study, nursing staff from three long-term inpatient facilities were observed using the HAL® lumbar type exoskeleton for a period of 90 days with the aim of reducing physical strai
Sponsors
AG Versorgungsforschung - Pflege im Krankenhaus
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Age
18 Years to 65 Years
Inclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: Caregiver in one of the participating care facilities Regular physical work in caregiving Willingness to participate in the 90-day study Consent to data collection (VAS, ODI, SF-8, interviews) Signed informed consent
Exclusion criteria
Exclusion criteria: Severe health restrictions that prevent the wearer from using the exoskeleton Acute injuries or chronic illnesses that preclude participation Pregnancy Lack of willingness to use the exoskeleton regularly Refusal to participate in data collection (VAS, ODI, SF-8, interviews) Missing declaration of consent
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame |
|---|---|
| The objective of this study is to assess the impact of the HAL® lumbar type exoskeleton on the subjective pain intensity experienced by caregivers in their lower back. The measurement of this impact will be conducted using the visual analog scale (VAS). The measurement will be taken at several points in time: 14 days before the start of the intervention (baseline, without exoskeleton), during the 90-day intervention phase (before and after each use), and at the end of the intervention. The objective of this study is to assess whether the utilization of the exoskeleton results in a substantial reduction in pain, thereby alleviating the burden on nursing personnel. | — |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame |
|---|---|
| Secondary endpoints encompass the evaluation of the functionality of the exoskeleton by the nursing staff. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-8) are utilized to assess health-related quality of life. Additionally, the participants' willingness to use the exoskeleton is examined, including whether they would recommend it to others.The tertiary endpoint relates to the actual supportive function of the exoskeleton in everyday nursing care. To assess the long-term benefits of the technology for nursing care, qualitative interviews are used to evaluate experiences, potential obstacles, and possible adjustments to work processes. | — |
Countries
Germany
Contacts
Public ContactSebastian Hofstetter
AG Versorgungsforschung - Pflege im Krankenhaus
Outcome results
None listed