Have you ever wondered why healthcare workers face higher injury risks? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the healthcare industry employs more than 18 million workers in the US. Out of these workers, over 80% of them are women. The healthcare industry is a very important job in our society and with that, those that work in healthcare also face a higher risk of non-fatal injury and illnesses compared to other industries.
Injury Risks for Healthcare Workers
Hospital staff and nurses that provide healthcare services in public and private clinics, hospitals and home-care constantly have situations that are stressful and demanding.
Some of the most common work-related injuries and disorders that happen to healthcare workers may include:
• MSD and Repetitive stress disorder – Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says that workers in healthcare face up to seven times greater risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders as compared to workers in other types of industries. These musculoskeletal disorders result from performing repetitive tasks, lots of bending and lifting of heavy patients, and more which can lead to slipped discs and sprains in the shoulder and lower back area.
• Injuries caused by handling patients – Workers in the healthcare industry often need to handle patients and that may require lifting and carrying them for re-positioning, helping them move from one location to another. This can increase the risk of stress related injuries, spinal injuries, exposure to airborne infections and pathogens.
• Blood borne diseases – Healthcare workers handle needles and other sharp medical instruments that can easily puncture the skin. This increase in danger can expose healthcare workers to blood borne diseases and infections like HIV / AIDS, Hepatitis B and C and others.
• Violence – Mental stress and emotions run high in hospitals and healthcare facilities. According to OSHA, healthcare workers are often prone to physical violence in the workplace. Injured criminals, felons looking for drugs and even distraught or angry family members of patients can resort to violent behavior. This violence can result in broken bones, lacerations and head injuries.
• Slips and Falls – The floors in hospitals and clinics are required to be kept clean. This can lead to wet floors, not to mention any spilled liquids can increase the danger of a worker slipping and falling and receiving broken bones or head injuries as a result.
• Work related stress – Stress can take it’s toll on people in many professions. The stress level can be very high in the healthcare profession and workers. Working in shifts, overtime due to under-staffing and more can all contribute to a number of mental injuries.
Healthcare Workers Compensation in Syracuse
Those working in healthcare should always be aware that they can file a workers compensation claim should they get injured or become ill because of the work they do. Workers compensation benefits can cover medical expenses and lost wages due your absence from work because of your injuries. It can also provide death benefits to dependents of deceased workers. If an injury is the direct result of defective equipment or products, then the worker may also have a third party claim. It is always best to discuss your case with an experienced workers compensation attorney.
If you would like to talk to a Syracuse worker’s compensation lawyer about your potential case, please call us toll free at (800) 638-2998. You may also use one of our convenient online contact forms and one of our attorneys will call you at a time that is convenient for you. All consultations are FREE, and you never have to pay a fee unless your case is successful.
For over 38 years, our personal injury attorneys have successfully helped clients with all types of injury and accident cases throughout Syracuse and Central New York. Contact us now for a free consultation, and let our experienced legal team help you put your life back together.
