It's no secret that the demands of nursing can be physically taxing on the body, especially on areas like the wrists.
Nursing is a demanding profession, requiring a combination of physical stamina, precision, and mental acuity. Long shifts, sometimes 12 hours or longer, are common for bedside nurses, and present a host of challenges, including physical and mental/emotional fatigue.
Another challenge — which is often overlooked, despite how essential it is to performing daily tasks like moving patients, administering medications, and using medical devices — is wrist health.
Understanding the physical demands
Nursing duties often place repetitive strain and sustained pressure on the wrists, which can lead to cumulative trauma and result in chronic pain or injuries over time. Some common conditions that affect wrists include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS): This occurs when the wrist’s median nerve is compressed due to sustained pressure, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand.
- Tendinitis: This condition involves inflammation of the tendons in the wrists. The Mayo Clinic reports that it can result from both sudden injury and repeated motion, leading to pain, swelling, and a limited range of motion.
- De Quervain's tenosynovitis: This affects the tendons along the thumb side of the wrist. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that this condition is most noticeable when moving your thumb, forming a fist, and other actions associated with gripping and lifting objects.
- Wrist strains or sprains: Sudden movements, awkward postures, or heavy lifting can result in strains or sprains.
If left untreated, these conditions can impair your ability to perform essential tasks and may require medical intervention and physical or occupational therapy.
How do long shifts contribute to wrist issues?
Long shifts can exacerbate wrist strain due to several factors. The prolonged periods of repetitive motions without adequate rest can lead to the development of overuse injuries. In fact, the National Library of Medicine reports that individuals who do repetitive wrist motions are at a higher risk of developing wrist injuries and disorders.
Activities such as typing notes, adjusting IVs, and administering injections, all require repetitive wrist movements. Over time, these can lead to overuse injuries. Bedside tasks often demand repetitive motions of the wrist or awkward wrist positions, which increases strain on tendons and ligaments.
Additionally, transferring or repositioning patients can place significant stress on the wrists, particularly when proper lifting techniques aren’t employed. Extended shifts reduce opportunities for rest and recovery, increasing the risk of injury or trauma to the wrists.
Tips for maintaining wrist health
Taking proactive measures can protect your wrists and reduce the risk of injury. Here are some tips to help you keep your wrists healthy, especially at work.
1. Practice proper ergonomics
Observe how you position your wrists when completing tasks during your shift. Based on recommendations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), it’s important to keep your wrists in a neutral position whenever possible. Avoid excessive flexion or extension during tasks like typing or holding equipment. Use ergonomic tools such as wrist supports or cushioned mousepads to reduce pressure when documenting.
2. Use assistive devices
Take advantage of assistive devices like patient lifts or transfer boards to minimize physical strain during patient handling. Choose lightweight and ergonomically designed equipment that reduces strain on your wrists.
If you must lift or reposition patients without support from assistive devices, keep your wrists in a neutral position to avoid excessive strain and follow your organization’s policies and procedures. In addition, OSHA provides numerous resources for safe patient handling for healthcare professionals that will keep both you and your patients safe.
3. Strengthen and stretch wrist muscles
Incorporating exercises can help improve wrist strength and flexibility. According to Healthline, there are several easy stretches you can do to support your wrist health. For example, you can gently stretch your wrists by extending your arm with your palm facing up and using your other hand to gently pull your fingers back.
You can also use stress balls or grip trainers to build muscle endurance and engage in resistance band exercises to target the wrists and forearms.
4. Take micro-breaks when possible
When you can, incorporate short breaks into your shift to rest your wrists. Even one or two minutes of stretching every hour can help reduce tension. This can be as simple as rotating your wrists clockwise and counterclockwise.
6. Monitor and address early symptoms
Pay attention to early signs of wrist discomfort, such as tingling or mild pain. Seek evaluation from your healthcare provider or physical therapist if symptoms persist to prevent escalation into chronic issues.
7. Invest in self-care outside of work
Allow your wrists to rest after long shifts, avoiding strenuous activities that can worsen strain. Alternate between heat and cold packs to soothe inflammation and relax muscles. Consider occasional hand and wrist massages to improve circulation and alleviate tension.
Long shifts can increase the risk of repetitive strain and injuries, and your wrist health is integral to your ability to provide quality care. By adopting ergonomic practices, strengthening your wrists, and seeking timely interventions, you can take care of yourself while taking care of your patients.
