Jessica McKinney

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Jessica McKinney is a leading voice in surgical ergonomics, a field dedicated to the physical well-being of operating room professionals. Her seminal work, "Ergonomics in the Operating Room: Protecting the Surgeon" (2013), has garnered 78 citations and is considered a foundational text in understanding the musculoskeletal risks faced by surgeons. McKinney’s research identifies how prolonged, static postures and poorly designed instruments contribute to chronic pain and injury, and she has pioneered evidence-based interventions—from adjustable OR tables to micro-break protocols—that are now adopted in hospitals worldwide. Her contributions have reshaped surgical training, emphasizing that a surgeon’s longevity depends on proper ergonomic practices. Beyond her landmark paper, McKinney has collaborated with engineers to design next-generation surgical tools that reduce physical strain. With a citation count reflecting her growing influence, she is a sought-after speaker at medical conferences, advocating for a culture shift that prioritizes the health of the healer. For students and researchers, McKinney’s work offers a vital reminder: protecting the surgeon ultimately protects the patient.