Nurses make a career out of helping people who are sick, injured or in need of healthcare for any reason. Some of these professionals are so dedicated to the patients they care for that they don’t pay attention to their own health, and they may risk their own safety during the course of care.
Many factors can lead to a nurse suffering an injury while they’re working; however, some of these aren’t one-time events. Having to bend to care for patients or assist patients with mobility, as well as other common tasks in nursing, can lead to cumulative trauma injuries.
What are cumulative trauma injuries?
Cumulative trauma injuries are those that occur because of repetitive motions putting strain on the same area of the body. These are often difficult to recognize because they start off with mild symptoms that go away with rest, but they become more pronounced as the damage to the area continues. Carpal tunnel syndrome and certain lower back or knee injuries fall into this category.
What other injuries can nurses face?
Nurses can face a host of injuries that are caused by single events. These can include back or head injuries from falling, diseases from needle or sharps sticks, injuries from patient violence and bodily fluid exposure. In many cases, these are preventable if the healthcare facility has appropriate protocols in place and provide the necessary personal protective equipment.
Injured nurses may try to finish out a shift before they seek medical attention. That can exacerbate some injuries. Ultimately, injuries that nurses face can lead to considerable medical care costs and having to take time off work. Workers’ compensation should cover the cost of medical care, and it may provide partial wage replacement.