Ergonomics characteristics of computer users based on the transtheoretical model-stage of change

Pay no attention to ergonomics principles among computer users may lead to physical health problems and loss of productivity. The aim of this study was to determine the ergonomics characteristics among computer users in the Baqiyatallah Hospital based on transtheoretical model-stage of change.
This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 115 computer users who worked by computers more than 20 hours per week. Data was collected using the stage of change questionnaire and to assess the ergonomics characteristics, Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) was used. Data was analyzed through descriptive and analytical statistics by SPSS software.
Our findings about the stages of change showed that pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance stage was seen in 31.3%, 20%, 15.7%, 10.4%, and 22.6% of users, respectively. In addition, ROSA showed that the ergonomics characteristics were at acceptable, warning, and intervention level in 2.6%, 53%, and 44.3% of participants. Chi square test indicated a significant relationship between educations and stages of change (p=0.030). As a result, 67% of users were in the inactive group (pre-contemplation, contemplation, and preparation); while based on ROSA, 97.4 % were at warning level and intervention.
Generally, the majority of users were in the inactive group (pre-contemplation, contemplation, and preparation) and the ergonomics characteristics were at warning and intervention levels. Therefore, in this regard, it is suggested the appropriate educational interventions.