Whether or not an ultrasound facility is equipped with the newest, most ergonomic equipment, sonographers must change the behaviors that have led to pain in the past. They must become aware of the postures and work activities that produce pain and make the necessary changes. The following best practice tip illustrates how injury risk can be reduced.
- Neck flexion/extension -avoid excessive neck flexion and extension. These postures cause an increase in pressure on the intervertebral discs in the cervical spine.
BEST PRACTICE: Position the ultrasound monitor so that you are looking at the top of the screen. You can comfortably have 20 degrees of neck flexion but avoid having to look up. This also applies to the position of the workstation computer and PACs monitors. |
