Arranging the working environment so as to increase the efficiency and well being of the employees follow the principle of?

Appeared in: KPSC Staff Nurse - 2015

Explanation

Ergonomics is the scientific discipline focused on 'fitting the job to the worker' to improve efficiency and well-being.
It involves designing the workplace, equipment, and tasks to match the physiological and psychological capabilities of the employee.
The primary goals are to increase efficiency and productivity while reducing discomfort, fatigue, and the risk of injury.
This principle directly addresses the question's focus on arranging the environment for both efficiency and well-being.

Option A: Economics is the study of resource allocation, production, and consumption. It does not specifically focus on the design of the physical work environment for employee well-being.
Option B: Politics relates to governance, power structures, and policy-making within an organization or state. It does not deal with the physical arrangement of the workspace.
Option C: Sociology is the study of social behavior, structures, and institutions. While it might study workplace culture, it does not focus on the physical design and human-machine interface.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Principles of workplace management and occupational health as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses are at extremely high risk for musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs), particularly back injuries, due to frequent lifting, transferring, and repositioning of patients. Applying ergonomic principles is a primary prevention strategy.
Proper ergonomics not only protects the nurse but also enhances patient safety. A nurse who is not fatigued or in pain is less likely to make errors.
What if? If a hospital invests in ergonomic equipment (e.g., ceiling lifts, height-adjustable beds) but doesn't train staff on its use, the injury rates may not decrease. The answer then shifts from just providing equipment to ensuring proper training and adherence to ergonomic principles.

How to Approach the Question

First, break down the question's core components: 'arranging the working environment', 'increase efficiency', and 'well-being of employees'.
Next, consider each option's definition. Think about what each field of study primarily concerns itself with.
Economics is about money and resources. Politics is about power and governance. Sociology is about society and social groups.
Ergonomics is about the interaction between people and their work environment. The keywords in the question directly align with the definition of ergonomics.
Therefore, by matching the core concepts of the question to the definitions of the options, you can identify Ergonomics as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q2B7mepuUBhF9ucyZXGzIL

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart B (pp 233-449 of 464) p. 120-122

Practise the full KPSC Staff Nurse - 2015

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.