Conectar
by Osman Yimer Mohammed, Kerstin Erlandsson, Tewodros Seyoum, Solomon Hailemeskel, Lemma Derseh, Helena Lindgren
BackgroundWork-related musculoskeletal disorder is a limiting, painful condition that affects the muscular, skeletal, articular, and nervous tissues of the body. The condition is mainly associated with poor working conditions and awkward body positions. Health professionals, including midwives, are among the most affected workforce globally. The condition affects the health of the professionals and the quality of care that professionals are expected to provide. However, there is a scarcity of information on the magnitude of the condition, its effect on midwifery practice, and associated factors. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorder, its effect on midwifery practice, and associated factors among midwives in North Shoa Zone, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia.
MethodAn institution-based cross-sectional study assessed the magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMSD), the effect on midwifery practice, and associated factors. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorder Scale was used to assess the presence of WRMSDs in the nine regional body parts and its effect. A stepwise backward elimination logistic regression model was used, and significant association was declared at a p-value of less than 0.05.
ResultsA total of 473 (252 (53.3%) female and 221 (46.7%) male) midwives participated in this study. Overall, in the last 12 months, 355 (75.05%, 95% CI: 71.15% − 78.95%) midwives were affected by WRMSD, which was seen in any one of the nine regional body parts. About 45% (162) of them reported being unable to perform their daily tasks while they were affected, and 27% (96) of them sought treatment for their condition. The lower back was the most affected axial body part, reported by 300 (63.4%, 95% CI: 59% − 68%) midwives. Working in awkward or uncomfortable positions was significantly associated with the development of WRMSD (AOR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.15–2.87). Similarly, awkward positions significantly affected the development of area-specific WRMSD in the lower back, upper back, neck, and limbs. Working in the same position for a longer time, seeing clients daily, and moving heavy objects were among the risk factors associated with developing area-specific WRMSD among midwives.
ConclusionThe magnitude of work-related musculoskeletal disorders is high among midwives, and a significant number of them were unable to perform their daily tasks. The lower and upper back are the most commonly affected areas. Working in uncomfortable positions and attending to large clients daily were common risk factors. Therefore, training midwives about safe working positions and reducing the workload is commendable.
The roles and functions of traditional birth attendants in the community and in relation to the formal healthcare system have to the best of our knowledge, not previously been explored in Somaliland. This study aimed to explore the past and current roles and practices of traditional birth attendants from the traditional birth attendants’ perspective.
An exploratory study was conducted using purposive sampling technique first followed by snowballing technique from January to December 2023.
Somaliland rural communities in the six regions of the country.
Traditional birth attendants from all six regions of Somaliland were interviewed. Thematic analysis inspired by Braun and Clarke was used to analyse the data.
Traditional birth attendants were historically involved in pregnancy care, childbirth and the practice of female genital mutilation/cutting. Their role has undergone a significant shift in recent years. Traditional birth attendants are increasingly acting as vital links between the community and the formal healthcare system. They report that they have maintained strong trust within their communities, which positions them as effective mediators in promoting access to professional maternal and reproductive health services.
Traditional birth attendants are becoming trusted intermediaries between the community and the formal healthcare system. In the pursuit of universal health coverage and the goal of delivering high-quality, equitable care for all, leveraging traditional birth attendants as part of a broader midwifery-led care model offers a cost-effective strategy in the Somaliland context.
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