AEP Musculoskeletal Disorders and Prevention Flashcards

The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool is designed to evaluate exposure to risk factors for disorders of which body regions?

Answer: Upper extremities and neck/trunk

RULA focuses on the upper extremities (wrist, forearm, upper arm) and the neck and trunk to identify MSD risk in sedentary and light-duty tasks.

Which outcome does a RULA grand score of 7 indicate?

Answer: Immediate investigation and changes required

A RULA grand score of 7 is the highest level, indicating the posture is unacceptable and requires immediate corrective action.

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) related to ergonomic exposures is primarily associated with compression of which structures?

Answer: Brachial plexus and subclavian vessels near the neck and shoulder

TOS results from compression of the brachial plexus and subclavian artery/vein in the space between the clavicle and first rib, often worsened by sustained overhead work.

In the Strain Index, which job variable reflects how close the work demands are to the worker's maximum muscular capability?

Answer: Intensity of exertion

Intensity of exertion in the Strain Index is rated relative to the worker's perceived maximum effort and has a significant multiplying effect on overall score.

Which prevention strategy is an example of a SECONDARY intervention for WMSDs?

Answer: Early reporting and treatment of early symptoms

Secondary prevention focuses on early identification and treatment of symptoms before they progress to serious injury, such as prompt reporting and medical management.

Which hand-wrist disorder is characterized by triggering or locking of a finger due to tendon sheath inflammation?

Answer: Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis)

Trigger finger occurs when the tendon sheath becomes inflamed and thickened, causing the tendon to catch as the finger flexes or extends.