Nurses are the backbone of the medical field. Without nurses, hospitals, doctor’s offices and clinics would find it difficult to care for patients. Some patients might find it hard to get the help they need because they usually count on nurses, nursing assistants, and caregivers to take care of them in their homes. People who handle all of these jobs are at an increased risk of being injured in accidents or coming down will illnesses simply because of job hazards. This is unacceptable, especially when workplaces don’t take adequate steps to prevent these from occurring.
#1: Falls
Falls are one major cause of injury for people in the medical field. Keeping fall hazards under control poses a unique problem in this field. One reason is that you can’t always control liquids on the floor or similar factors. Patients might bleed or urinate on the ground. If it isn’t noticed or cleaned, the nurse might slip. Lines, cords and tubing might also pose a fall hazard for medical professionals. In the home health care industry, falls in a client’s home are possible since these clients might not be able to clean the house and tidy up like they wish they could.
#2: Back injuries
Back injuries are a serious problem. These might because by trying to lift heavy patients. Ideally, lifts and transfer assistive devices would be available when a nurse would have to lift a patient; however, this isn’t always the case. Getting another person to help might also be possible. Making sure that there are protocols in place to handle heavy lifting is crucial for any health care provider.
#3: Repetitive motion injuries
Repetitive motion injuries can occur. Nurses that have to bend over a hospital bed all day might have a lower back injury. Other injuries, such as carpal tunnel from having to type outpatient notes, are also possible. Preventative measures, such as ergonomic equipment, can help to prevent these injuries.
#4: Abuse or violence
Abuse at the hands of patients or clients is possible. Hospitals, home health care agencies, and all other medical facilities, should take steps to ensure that their staff members can remain safe. Having a plan of action to put violent acts from occurring is crucial for all facilities that care for patients.
#5: Illness
Illnesses are another hazard that nurses face. Frequent hand washing can help to prevent this from occurring. Nurses should also have their vaccinations up-to-date. Medical employers should ensure that nurses have masks, gowns, shoe covers, gloves, eye shields and other equipment that will help them to avoid contact with bodily fluids and other items that might harbor germs.
