Comparing the Effects of Cervical Radiculopathy on Upper Limb Functions Between ICU and Emergency Department Nurses

Abstract

Background Cervical radiculopathy is a significant occupational health concern among nurses, with upper limb dysfunction potentially impairing work performance and patient care. Objective This study aimed to compare the effects of cervical radiculopathy on upper limb function between ICU and ED nurses, hypothesizing no significant difference in disability levels between groups. Methods A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in private hospitals in Lahore, including 108 female nurses (n = 54 ICU, n = 54 ED), aged 25–45 years, with positive Spurling’s test and working a minimum of six hours per shift. Exclusion criteria comprised traumatic cervical injury, prior cervical surgery, and pregnancy. Upper limb function was assessed using the Quick DASH questionnaire. Ethical approval was obtained by the Helsinki Declaration, and informed consent was secured. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, applying chi-square tests and independent samples t-tests; p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results ICU nurses showed a mean Quick DASH score of 20.03 (SD = 11.55) and ED nurses 16.50 (SD = 10.98), with no statistically significant difference (p = 0.101). Most nurses reported mild disability (ICU: 66.7%, ED: 79.6%). The chi-square test revealed no significant association between group and disability severity (p = 0.313). Conclusion Cervical radiculopathy leads to similar levels of upper limb dysfunction among ICU and ED nurses. These findings support universal ergonomic interventions and routine screening to protect nurse health and sustain clinical performance.