As a healthcare worker, you provide some of the most critical services. Unfortunately, you may be at risk of suffering different types of injuries on the job.
Work in the healthcare industry involves manual labor, such as heavy lifting, which can take a toll on your body. In addition, you may get injured by people or other things you encounter daily while on the job. Below are the most common types of injuries among healthcare workers:
Back injuries
Nurses and other healthcare workers are often required to lift and transport patients, which can sometimes cause back injuries. However, while some back injuries may be apparent immediately, others may not, and they may build up with repetitive movement. Both workload and posture can worsen back injuries.
Musculoskeletal injuries
Although most healthcare workers ignore their own distress and continue assisting their patients and saving lives, ignoring musculoskeletal injuries may lead to disability. Healthcare workers are more prone to musculoskeletal injuries and disorders due to the nature of their work.
Due to the heavy daily lifting, most healthcare workers experience serious and debilitating back and musculoskeletal injuries. These injuries may lead to chronic pain, which may eventually prevent you from working.
Blood-borne diseases and infections
Exposure to mucous and bodily waste is common in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. In addition, while in the line of duty, healthcare workers may catch various blood-borne diseases and infections, especially if they have wounds. Therefore, they may be at risk of developing serious diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis.
If you or a loved one works in the healthcare industry, you may be vulnerable to several on-the-job injuries. Being injured at work may impact your life in various ways and even prevent you from doing your job. While this may cause financial worries, making a worker’s compensation claim may offer you financial assistance as you recuperate.
