In 2020 labor statistics, we gained a newfound appreciation for healthcare workers who bravely fought on the front lines against COVID-19. However, it's essential to recognize that these dedicated professionals face more significant occupational injury risks than many realize. AtBarrington Orthopedic Specialists, ourworkers' compensation program is committed to educating workers from all industries about the potential dangers they may encounter in the workplace to prevent injuries. For healthcare workers, it's crucial to be aware of the most common work-related injuries that can occur during your workday.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Certain hospital workers, such as orderlies, attendants, nurses, and their aides, spend significant portions of their day engaging in physically demanding and repetitive tasks. These activities often involve pushing heavy carts, lifting objects, and, most importantly, lifting and transferring non-mobile patients. However, according to labor statistics provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, performing these tasks for prolonged periods without regular breaks can lead to various injuries, such as strains, sprains, andother overexertion-related injuries. In such cases, seeking proper medical treatment and workers' compensation becomes crucial.

Proper Training and Techniques for Prevention

To prevent workplace injuries, healthcare workers must receive adequate training and education on proper techniques for lifting, transferring, and pushing heavy objects. This includes learning how to use lifting equipment and seeking assistance from other staff members. Frequent breaks are also essential to reduce the risk of injury and illness.

3 Common Workplace Injuries in Healthcare

Now, we will delve into three of the most common workplace injuries healthcare workers face daily. Understanding these can help us develop more effective prevention and risk management strategies, contributing to a safer healthcare environment.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Fatal occupational injuries and nonfatal injuries are significant concerns for healthcare workers. Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) are among the most common types of nonfatal injuries faced by healthcare workers. These injuries occur due to repetitive motions, leading to muscle, tendon, nerve strain, inflammation, and damage. It is crucial to address these issues to ensure the safety and well-being of healthcare professionals.

Slips and Falls

A work-related injury or accident can occur in any facility, but hospitals can pose a higher risk for workplace injury, slips explicitly, and falls. Healthcare tasks often involve urgency, leading workers to rush through high-traffic areas. This fast-paced environment can result in wet floors, increasing the risk of slipping. Furthermore, the need for a sterile hospital environment leads to the frequent use of cleaning products on the floors, further contributing to the risk of work-related injuries.

Healthcare workers frequently encounter sharp objects like needles and surgical tools, putting them at a higher risk of skin-piercing injuries that can cause nerve or muscle damage. In such cases, medical treatment and stitches may be necessary to repair the skin. Additionally, worker's compensation should be considered to support these healthcare professionals affected by such injuries and illness cases.

At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our workers' compensation department can be reached at (847) 285-4220 or by completing a Request an Appointment form on our website at www.barringtonortho.com.  Our Schaumburg location offers a work conditioning program to safely return injured workers to full-duty work.