Development of the low back health awareness in patient transfer scale for operating room and intensive care unit staff and evaluation of factors associated with low back pain

Objectives: Low back pain is a widespread musculoskeletal problem that causes significant social and economic burdens by leading to loss of working capacity and functional impairment. Those who transfer patients, particularly operating theatre and intensive care staff, are at high risk. This study aimed to develop the low back health awareness in patient transfer scale (LBHAPTS) and evaluate the prevalence, risk factors and consequences of back pain among these personnel. Methodology: This methodological study developed the LBHAPTS through item generation, content validity, pilot testing, factor analyses (EFA, CFA), and reliability testing, with data from 288 healthcare workers. Results: The 22-item scale demonstrated high validity (S-CVI/Ave = 95.45%) and reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.910; ICC = 0.882). Factor analyses confirmed a three-factor structure explaining 57% of the total variance. Model fit indices were acceptable (chi 2/df = 2.45, CFI = 0.907, RMSEA = 0.071). Scale scores showed significant differences according to education, equipment, and back health knowledge, with no differences found between occupational groups. Conclusion: Our study concludes that the scale is a useful and reliable tool, highlighting the importance of training and knowledge to reduce ergonomic risks and promote safe patient transfer practices.