Hospitals can be dangerous places – especially for registered nurses (RNs). While RNs play a critical role in patient care, they also face a whole host of workplace hazards every day. Some of these can lead to permanent consequences for their physical and mental health.
While only 61% of registered nurses actually work in hospitals, slightly more than 74% of workplace injuries suffered by RNs occur in those settings. Here are some of the biggest risks that RNs face in hospitals.
Exposure to infectious diseases
There’s an old saying that “hospitals are full of sick people.” By the very nature of their jobs, RNs are exposed to respiratory infections, tuberculosis and bloodborne pathogens like HIV and hepatitis. One unprotected cough or a needlestick injury is all it can take to leave an RN with a life-threatening illness.
Musculoskeletal injuries
RNs spend a lot of time on their feet, lifting and turning patients – and that puts them at risk of repetitive strain injuries to their back, shoulders and knees. Hospital floors are also slick, and RNs run the risk of slip-and-fall injuries (and all that might entail, including traumatic head injuries) while rushing from room to room.
Workplace violence
Violence has become an increasing issue in hospitals, with RNs taking the brunt of it. Patients who are suffering from drug addiction or mental health issues can lash out in anger at the nearest party – and that’s often their nurse. Family members of patients, too, can become hostile out of anger and frustration at perceived problems with patient care, and nurses are uniquely vulnerable to their outbursts. That can leave RNs with both physical and psychological scars.
If you’re an RN who suffers a workplace injury, don’t let anybody discourage you from filing a workers’ compensation claim. Legal guidance can help you get the benefits you are due.