Analysis of the Working Conditions of Paramedical Staff in a Burn Unit Using the Ergonomic Approach

Introduction : the paramedical staff of the burn unit at an University Hospital Center requested the occupational health service to find a solution to the organizational constraints and health complaints that are leading to an increase in sick leave. Objectives: To evaluate working conditions and health status, propose corrective measures, encourage management to provide appropriate solutions, and monitor the implementation and impact of proposed improvements. Methodology: To complete this work, it seemed useful to propose an ergonomic intervention on the working conditions of paramedical staff by analyzing the work activity in the burn units and involving the concerned staff. The health status of the paramedical staff was assessed by reviewing the medical records. Results: This study highlighted several organizational constraints, including the work carried out by nursing assistants and public health nurses outside the scope of competencies defined by law. The lack of paramedical staff, which can impact the health of these agents and therefore work stoppages. The observation also highlighted the age of the facility and equipment. All the constraints and problems observed during our study were discussed at a meeting with the hospital management. Increasing staffing and a renovation or replacement project for the facility were the solutions proposed at the meeting. Monitoring is essential to verify the implementation of these solutions. Conclusion: Improving working conditions has a strong influence on the behavior of paramedical staff, their health, their work motivation, and consequently on the performance of the burn unit. Keywords: burn unit; ergonomics; working conditions