Physische und psychische Gesundheitsbelastungen und Risikofaktoren in der Krankenhausgroßküche

Despite their crucial role in patient care and the importance of needs-based nutrition, hospital kitchens have been neglected in research with respect to the daily work routine and stresses. In this context hospital kitchen workers are confronted with a variety of psychological and physical stresses, including multitasking, work interruptions, activity changes and awkward postures. Unfavorable postures, such as prolonged standing, repetitive tasks and manual load handling, are risk factors for the development of musculoskeletal disorders, which are the most common cause of work disability in Germany. The literature-based review emphasizes the working conditions in hospital kitchens with the aim of identifying potential health burdens in order to ensure the quality of patient care and provide optimum protection for the health of employees. A guideline-based assessment of activities and ergonomic design of workplaces, including preventive measures, is important to reduce the risk of physical and mental illnesses among employees.