Nurses spend so much of their time helping other people who are injured, that their own health is often overlooked. Nonetheless, the reality is that many nurses are injured on the job every single day.
The causes of injuries in the nursing profession are numerous. Here are some of the most common examples.
Slips and falls
Nurses treat several patients every day and their work may involve working on different wards or different parts of the hospital. In emergency situations, a nurse may have to get from one place to another very quickly.
These factors increase the risk of trips and falls. A nurse may be obstructed by visitors, another member of staff or objects placed in hallways. As hospital cleaning occurs so frequently, the likelihood of a nurse slipping on a wet floor is also quite high.
Physical attacks
While it may come as a surprise, nurses can be victims of physical attacks. In some cases, the side effects of treatments on patients can be unpredictable, and they may lash out when in pain or when suffering side effects from certain medications. Patients may also have psychiatric conditions that make them feel paranoid and scared.
Furthermore, nurses often have to deal with patients who are under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. Again, the behavior of people in such conditions can be erratic and potentially dangerous. A significant number of nurses have faced physical attacks during their career.
If you are a nurse and have been injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help to cover your medical bills, pain and suffering and lost wages. Seek legal guidance to find out more information.