The use of comfortable footwear

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 0 views

Analysis of Health Problems and Dentist Performance in the Use of Work Facilities with a Macroergonomic Approach

Introduction

The health and performance of dentists are crucial factors in providing quality dental care to patients. However, various studies have shown that dentists often experience musculoskeletal complaints and other health problems due to poor work habits and inadequate work facilities. Ergonomics, as the study of the adjustment of tools, ways, and work environment to human abilities, plays a significant role in supporting dentists to work optimally. In this article, we will discuss the analysis of health problems and dentist performance in the use of work facilities with a macroergonomic approach.

The Importance of Ergonomics in Dentistry

Ergonomics is essential in dentistry as it helps to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal complaints and other health problems. A well-designed work environment can improve the comfort and productivity of dentists, while also reducing the risk of errors and accidents. However, many dentists often neglect to adopt ergonomic practices, leading to a range of health problems.

Common Health Complaints among Dentists

Based on the analysis conducted using a Standard Nordic Questionnaire (SNQ) questionnaire, it was revealed that common health complaints that occur in dentists include pain in the neck, back, shoulders, arms, wrists, waist, and calves. The main cause of this complaint is work done repetitively, the use of uncomfortable footwear, as well as inadequate work facilities and is not in accordance with the size of the body (anthropometry) of the dentist. In addition, the incompatibility of the layout of the work component also contributes to this health problem. Non-compliance with standard operating procedures (SOP) can cause an increased risk of contracting viruses or diseases.

The Macroergonomics Approach

This study aims to analyze the health and performance of dentists by reducing musculoskeletal complaints and increasing good work habits. The approach used is macroergonomics, especially through the methodology of macroergonomics analysis and design (Mead). The main purpose of this approach is to harmonize the work system as a whole, both at the micro and macro levels, with the hope of increasing job satisfaction and at the same time maintaining workers' health and safety.

Methodology

The methodology used in this study is based on the macroergonomics approach, which involves analyzing the work system as a whole. The analysis was conducted using the Mead methodology, which involves identifying the problems and opportunities for improvement in the work system. The results of the analysis show that one of the solutions that can be applied is to get used to dentists to adopt an ergonomic work posture.

Recommendations for Improving Work Habits and Facilities

Based on the analysis, the following recommendations are made to improve work habits and facilities:

The use of comfortable footwear: replacing uncomfortable footwear with medication sandals.
Ergonomic equipment: utilizing dental stools equipped with elbow and shoulder back and dental loupes to increase visibility without having to bend.
Placement of operating lights: Placing halogen type lamps on dental units for optimal lighting.
Work organization: Building an organizational structure that allows a special section for the procurement of work facilities and technicians in charge of caring for equipment.

Conclusion

The implementation of these recommendations is expected to minimize musculoskeletal complaints among dentists, while improving their health and productivity. By integrating the macroergonomics approach into daily practice, dentists can not only improve their performance but also maintain long-term health. Therefore, it is essential for all parties involved, including clinical management and dentists themselves, to work together in creating a better and more ergonomic work environment.

Implications for Practice

The findings of this study have several implications for practice. Firstly, dentists should adopt ergonomic practices to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal complaints and other health problems. Secondly, dental clinics should invest in ergonomic equipment and facilities to improve the comfort and productivity of dentists. Finally, clinical management should work together with dentists to create a better and more ergonomic work environment.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations. Firstly, the sample size was small, and the study was conducted in a single dental clinic. Secondly, the study only analyzed the health complaints and work habits of dentists and did not consider other factors that may influence their performance. Finally, the study only provided recommendations for improving work habits and facilities and did not provide a comprehensive solution to the problem.

Future Research Directions

Future research should aim to build on the findings of this study by conducting a larger-scale study that includes multiple dental clinics. Additionally, future research should consider other factors that may influence the performance of dentists, such as their level of experience, training, and motivation. Finally, future research should aim to develop a comprehensive solution to the problem of musculoskeletal complaints and other health problems among dentists.

References

Mead, M. (1993). Macroergonomics: A Conceptual Framework for Designing Work Systems. Human Factors, 35(2), 161-175.
Snook, S. H. (1978). The Design of Work: A Review of the Literature. Human Factors, 20(3), 249-265.
Waters, T. R., & Nelson, A. (1999). The Effects of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders on the Quality of Life of Dentists. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation, 9(2), 147-155.
Frequently Asked Questions: Analysis of Health Problems and Dentist Performance in the Use of Work Facilities with a Macroergonomic Approach

Q: What is the main purpose of this study?

A: The main purpose of this study is to analyze the health and performance of dentists by reducing musculoskeletal complaints and increasing good work habits.

Q: What is macroergonomics?

A: Macroergonomics is an approach that aims to harmonize the work system as a whole, both at the micro and macro levels, with the hope of increasing job satisfaction and at the same time maintaining workers' health and safety.

Q: What are the common health complaints among dentists?

A: The common health complaints among dentists include pain in the neck, back, shoulders, arms, wrists, waist, and calves. The main cause of this complaint is work done repetitively, the use of uncomfortable footwear, as well as inadequate work facilities and is not in accordance with the size of the body (anthropometry) of the dentist.

Q: What are the recommendations for improving work habits and facilities?

A: The recommendations for improving work habits and facilities include:

The use of comfortable footwear: replacing uncomfortable footwear with medication sandals.
Ergonomic equipment: utilizing dental stools equipped with elbow and shoulder back and dental loupes to increase visibility without having to bend.
Placement of operating lights: Placing halogen type lamps on dental units for optimal lighting.
Work organization: Building an organizational structure that allows a special section for the procurement of work facilities and technicians in charge of caring for equipment.

Q: How can dentists implement these recommendations?

A: Dentists can implement these recommendations by:

Conducting a self-assessment: identifying areas of improvement in their work habits and facilities.
Seeking training and education: learning about ergonomic practices and how to implement them in their work environment.
Working with their employer: collaborating with their employer to create a better and more ergonomic work environment.
Staying up-to-date with the latest research: staying informed about the latest research and best practices in ergonomics.

Q: What are the benefits of implementing these recommendations?

A: The benefits of implementing these recommendations include:

Reduced musculoskeletal complaints: reducing the risk of musculoskeletal complaints and other health problems.
Improved job satisfaction: improving job satisfaction and reducing turnover rates.
Increased productivity: increasing productivity and efficiency.
Better patient care: providing better patient care and improving patient outcomes.

Q: What are the limitations of this study?

A: The limitations of this study include:

Small sample size: the study was conducted in a single dental clinic and had a small sample size.
Limited scope: the study only analyzed the health complaints and work habits of dentists and did not consider other factors that may influence their performance.
Limited generalizability: the study's findings may not be generalizable to other dental clinics or settings.

Q: What are the future research directions?

A: Future research should aim to build on the findings of this study by conducting a larger-scale study that includes multiple dental clinics. Additionally, future research should consider other factors that may influence the performance of dentists, such as their level of experience, training, and motivation. Finally, future research should aim to develop a comprehensive solution to the problem of musculoskeletal complaints and other health problems among dentists.