Editor's note: AJN would like to hear from readers who have experience with the issue presented by this reader. We will publish responses in the October issue of the journal. Send your comments to mailto:[email protected]by August 1, 2005.

I am an RN working in a hospital that recently carpeted all hallways. This decision was made without input from nurses who constantly push stretchers, beds, and wheelchairs down these hallways. Many of our older nurses now have more aches and pains in our knees, backs, and shoulders. We have to work harder to push the beds and stretchers, because of the increased drag on the wheels.

Have studies been done on the effects of carpeted halls in hospitals? In addition to concerns about injuries, we are worried about infection control and cleanliness. I would like to know if AJN readers have experienced similar problems and what their opinions are on these issues.

Lisa Cogswell, RN

Medord, OR