SVU 2025 Annual Conference Keynote: WRMSD Risk Pre & Post-Pandemic: What have we learned?-Keynote: WRMSD Risk Pre & Post-Pandemic: What have we learned?

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Kevin Evans delivered a compelling keynote on the escalating issue of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) among healthcare technologists, focusing on changes before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that despite ongoing ergonomic training, high rates of pain persist—up to 98% in some cohorts—highlighting a gap in effective interventions. Dr. Evans discussed how pandemic-induced workflow upheavals, increased workloads, and emotional strain compounded risks to both physical and mental health. A significant theme was "moral injury," originally a term from military contexts, describing healthcare workers' trauma when they could not provide ideal care due to external constraints during COVID-19. This injury affects morale and contributes to burnout.<br /><br />Dr. Evans advocated for a holistic approach combining physical ergonomic adjustments with mental health support, emphasizing community and teamwork. Key strategies include daily huddles, inclusive staff meetings focused on quality improvement rather than blame, and fostering a culture of care that supports all team members—from technologists to clerical staff. He urged forgiveness—of oneself and institutions—as crucial for healing and moving forward. Effective communication, flexible scheduling, and creative workplace adjustments were stressed as means to preserve exam quality and worker well-being. Ultimately, Dr. Evans called for collective advocacy and continuous adaptation—not mere acceptance—to improve health and safety in the post-pandemic era.

Keywords

work-related musculoskeletal disorders

healthcare technologists

COVID-19 pandemic

ergonomic training

moral injury

burnout

mental health support

teamwork and communication

workplace adaptation