FY 2013-2014
Lucas J. Carr, PhD, Principle Investigator, Assistant Professor, Department of Health and Human Physiology, University of Iowa
Efficacy of a Combined Ergonomic Health Promotion Intervention on Employee Health
Abstract provided by PI: Prolonged sedentary behavior is an independent risk factor for multiple chronic health diseases and a cause of musculoskeletal discomfort. Individuals working in full-time, sedentary occupations spend more than 75% of work time sitting placing them at increased risk for sedentary caused conditions. We will recruit 38 adults working in full-time, sedentary (desk-dependent) jobs at an independent worksite (ACT, Iowa City, IA) to participate in a 12 week, randomized controlled trial in which we will test the effects of an intervention that combines: a) replacing sedentary workstations with a novel seated active workstation (LifeBalance Station); and b) an intervention that optimizes computer workstation ergonomics on occupational sedentary behavior, cardiometabolic disease risk factors, musculoskeletal discomfort, and work productivity. Should the aims of this study be demonstrated, we will have identified an effective method of improving the health and well-being of sedentary workers and will have data to support a larger grant submission.
FY 2012-2013
Sharon Tucker, PhD, Principal Investigator, Director of Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice. Department of Nursing Services and Patient Care, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
Worksite Physical Activity Intervention for Ambulatory Clinic Registered Nursing Staff
Abstract provided by PI, This study explores if targeting nonexercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) activities in the worksite of 40 female ambulatory clinic RNs and MAs can influence physical activity (PA) levels and fat mass, and in turn productivity, injury and absenteeism. Relative to structured exercise, NEAT may be integrated into daily routines to improve PA, and may be more sustainable. Using a crossover design with repeated measures, we will examine the feasibility and preliminary effects of a 6-month worksite NEAT intervention, with and without personalized health coaching via texting, on PA levels, and health and productivity markers. Two ambulatory clinics will be randomly assigned to environmental intervention (EI) for 3 months followed by EI plus phone coaching for 3 months, or vice versa, with 3 repeated measurement time points. We will restructure work areas and provide a menu of NEAT activities and text health messaging to participants. Findings will guide further research grant development.
FY 2011-2012
Sandra Ramey, PhD, Principal Investigator, Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, University of Iowa
Evaluating Stress Resilience: A New Worksite Intervention to Reduce Stress and CVD Risk Factors in Police
Abstract provided by PI, The prevalence of public health problems such as heart disease and stress are high among law enforcement officers. Stress is a modifiable risk factor that contributes to chronic disease. Over a three-month time period, our stress resilience intervention will: 1) educate officers on techniques to manage emotional and physical responses to stress and 2) provide practice sessions that use a hand-held, non-invasive heart-rhythm monitor to facilitate acquiring the skills to self-regulate responses to stress techniques. A wait-list controlled design provides a scientific way to assess the intervention because the wait-listed group serves as control until it also receives the intervention. Measurements include psychological stress and biological variables including heart rate variability, lipid panels, C-reactive protein and serum glucose at baseline, 3 and 6 months. The proposed work is innovative because the focus is not on modifying the officers’ exposures to stressors but on modifying how they respond to stressful situations.