The healthcare industry has its share of safety risks. Workers in healthcare are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits for workplace injuries like any other workers. In fact, there are some common injuries that healthcare workers sustain and file workers’ compensation claims for.
Here are a few injuries to be aware of if you work in healthcare.
Back injuries
Back injuries are one of the most common for healthcare workers. Lifting patients, leaning over beds and working on your feet for extended hours can lead to a variety of back problems. Bulging discs, nerve damage and pulled muscles are a few of the common back injuries that occur.
Needle sticks
Though the medical industry implemented steps to minimize the risk of sharps-related injuries, needle sticks do still happen occasionally. Unfortunately, the healthcare workers that experience these injuries face exposure to a biological contaminant that could lead to serious injuries or illnesses.
Patient-related injuries
Although most healthcare roles are fairly predictable and peaceful, combative patients are a concern. Healthcare workers dealing with a hostile or combative patient may suffer injuries caused by that patient. Although the patient may be directly responsible, those injuries are work-related and eligible for workers’ compensation.
Exposure to pathogens, substances and radiation
The healthcare environment puts workers at risk of exposure to many things, including radiation in the imaging department as well as pathogens and harmful substances. Some of these contaminants lead to injuries and illnesses that workers’ compensation covers.
Healthcare workers are frontline workers and face emergency situations daily. These workers can claim workers’ compensation for injuries that occur on the job.
