People working at hospitals put in long hours and endure dangerous environments for the benefit of others. In some cases, their employment might put them at risk of injury or illness. Workplace safety statistics show that hospitals are among the most dangerous places for people to work.
What safety hazards contribute to the pervasiveness of hospital injuries?
1. Overexertion
People working in hospitals may have to perform the same functions repeatedly. They might also need to lift more than they can manage safely on their own when a patient has an emergency. Overexertion and the body’s reaction to it are responsible for almost half of all lost-time incidents at hospitals.
2. Slips, trips and falls
Same-level falls are an issue in any work environment. In hospitals, where people frequently rush to address emergencies, the potential for a same-level fall is especially high.
3. Contact with equipment
Healthcare professionals have to use many potentially dangerous tools to do their jobs. They could make contact with a robotic surgical device or with artificial external defibrillation devices, leading to illness or severe injury.
4. Violence
Drug withdrawal, dementia and frustration caused by pain are among the many reasons why health care professionals might experience violence in the workplace. Altercations with patients, family members or criminals can lead to hospital workers needing time off and medical care.
5. Exposure to substances
There are many hazardous materials in a hospital, including radioactive materials, bodily fluids and dangerous drugs. Exposure to dangerous substances can lead to illness or injury.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim can help medical professionals recover lost wages and pay for their treatment. Even when job hazards are obvious or outside of an employer’s control, a worker may still be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.