High rate of injuries for nurses

Nurses are essential in maintaining patients’ health. Their role goes much further than just care, though: nurses also help educate the public, run community health services and provide health screenings. Despite their substantial role in society, nurses face daily challenges that often limit their productivity. Since they spend most of their time walking, stretching, bending and standing, nurses face risks such as falls, trips and fatigue. Additionally, when handling drugs, nurses get exposed to hazardous chemicals. Here are some common injuries nurses in North Carolina face.

Overexertion and bodily injuries

Overexertion is among the common injuries affecting nurses. Resulting from excessive physical effort, overexertion can manifest itself in back injuries and strains, amongst other issues. To recover from such injuries, nurses require some time off the job. Cases of overexertion are prevalent among nurses aged between 45 to 54 years.

Accidental needlestick injuries

Medical equipment isn’t limited to thermometers and stethoscopes. Nurses are around a variety of potentially dangerous objects during the course of their day. Injuries from equipment can range from colliding with machines to exposure to used needles. These injuries can be minor, but that isn’t always the case. Nurses need to stay vigilant to avoid injury and the potential for contracting illness via needles.

Transportation injuries

Between surgeries, transfers and intake, patients are transported around hospitals frequently. Although patients are usually transported in a wheelchair, there still can be risks involved not just for the patients, but for healthcare workers, too. Accidents may occur when transferring a patient into a vehicle, and losing footing while transporting patients can result in falls. Some may be minor, but others can result in a significant work injury requiring surgery and may be career-ending. Safe transportation techniques are essential while transporting patients to prevent injuries.

Exposure to hazardous substances

Though healthcare is meant to save lives, nursing staff can be exposed to harmful substances. Some of these substances include sterilants, chemicals, medication, latex and volatile organic compounds. Thus, nurses must take extra safety precautions when handling such substances in order to prevent chemical burns, allergic reactions and more. Safe handling of hazardous substances is key in preventing workplace injury.

If you’re involved in a workplace accident, don’t hesitate to consult your attorney. An attorney might help you get an ideal outcome when requesting workers’ compensation.