The healthcare industry is a fast-paced environment. It seems as though there is always something going on, from angry patients to life-threatening medical emergencies.
With so much going on, it can be hard to stay safe and avoid workplace accidents. Doctors and nurses are constantly in a hurry, causing them to slip and fall or suffer injuries from lifting heavy objects or using medical instruments. These injuries can have adverse effects on healthcare professionals and greatly affect patient care.
The good news is that injured workers may be able to receive workers’ compensation benefits from their employer. Still, it’s important to play it safe while working in the healthcare industry. Here’s what you need to know about workplace accidents in the medical field.
Common Workplace Injuries
Here are some common occupational hazards that doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers need to be aware of:
- Slips, trips, and falls. These are often caused by wet or uneven floors caused by spilled liquids, as well as cluttered walkways and poor lighting. These accidents can be prevented with regular housekeeping. Removing clutter from hallways and other walking paths can make a huge difference. The use of non-slip mats and proper footwear can also help prevent slips and falls. Adequate lighting can help improve vision, especially in dark or dimly lit areas.
- Needlestick and sharps injuries. Doctors and nurses often handle needles and other sharp instruments. Getting poked by a needle is one of the biggest threats to healthcare workers. This is because blood can carry pathogens, and needles may expose healthcare workers to biological hazards, chemicals, and radioactive materials. To prevent sharps injuries, the focus should be on using safety-engineered sharp devices. Workers should properly dispose of sharps in puncture-resistant containers. There should also be training on safe handling techniques.
- Musculoskeletal injuries. Nurses often have to do a lot of heavy lifting, whether it’s boxes of materials or moving patients. Nurses and doctors are also often engaged in fine motor tasks such as microscope use, use of surgical instruments, and constant use of hand-held technology, computers, and medical equipment. These repetitive tasks, combined with poor ergonomics, often result in carpal tunnel syndrome, pulled muscles, and other damage to nerves and ligaments. The use of mechanical lifting aids, as well as proper body mechanics training, can help prevent musculoskeletal injuries.
- Exposure to infectious diseases and chemicals. In hospital environments, there are diseases and chemicals that workers may be exposed to. They may come into contact with blood, bodily fluids, chemicals, and airborne pathogens, all of which can cause illness. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as adherence to standard infection control protocols, can help prevent exposure. In terms of chemical spills, they should be handled promptly. Proper labeling and storage of chemicals can be helpful, as well as training on handling hazardous substances.
- Violence and aggression. Interactions with patients or visitors who may become violent. Patients who aren’t getting the care they feel they deserve may lash out at doctors and nurses. Visitors have been known to enter hospitals with guns and other weapons. To prevent injuries, healthcare professionals should go through de-escalation training. There should be policies in place for dealing with violent incidents. There also needs to be environmental controls throughout the building, such as secure areas.
Preventing Healthcare-Related Workplace Accidents
Preventing workplace accidents in the healthcare industry is a multifaceted approach that includes the following:
- Training and education. Management should conduct regular training sessions on safety protocols, proper use of equipment, infection control, and emergency procedures. There should also be continuing education opportunities available to keep staff updated on the latest safety practices and healthcare innovations.
- Safety protocols. Clear safety policies and procedures should be enforced for all healthcare activities. Management should also implement standard precautions for infection control, including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and safe injection practices.
- Proper equipment use. Workstations, beds, and other equipment need to be ergonomically designed to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Regular maintenance and safety checks should be scheduled for all medical equipment and devices.
- Environmental safety. Clean and organized workspaces are a must. Workers should maintain clean, clutter-free, and well-organized workspaces to prevent slips, trips, and falls. They should ensure that all areas, including hallways, staircases, and patient rooms, are well-lit.
- Technology. Implement automated systems for medication dispensing, patient monitoring, and recordkeeping to reduce human error. Use alarms and alert systems for early detection of potential hazards, such as patient distress or equipment malfunctions.
- Stress management and support. Monitor and manage staff workload to prevent burnout and fatigue, which can lead to mistakes. Provide access to mental health support and counseling services for employees dealing with stress.
Contact Us Today
Accidents can happen in all types of workplaces. Medical facilities such as doctor’s offices and hospitals can be dangerous places due to various factors.
A workers’ compensation lawyer at Brill & Rinaldi, The Law Firm, can help you receive compensation for injuries and other damages caused by a workplace accident. We can answer your questions and guide you through the process. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (954) 876-4344 or filling out the online form. We have offices in Weston, Coral Gables, and Daytona Beach.