When you think of workplace injuries, you might think of workers in construction, manufacturing or transportation. However, there are many other types of employees who file for workers’ compensation following injuries on the job, including nurses.
What kind of injuries are nurses prone to?
Nurses often experience back injuries, which can be a result of the physical nature of their job. For example, lifting patients and performing other strenuous tasks all day may lead to workers experiencing compressed vertebrae. Nurses also experience slips and falls, which can lead to serious injuries like broken bones. Nurses can also experience infections, cuts and needle sticks, which can all lead to serious health complications.
How can nurses avoid these injuries?
First, they should always use proper lifting techniques and equipment when transferring patients. For instance, they should use a manual lift or patient transfer device to avoid causing themselves pain. Second, they can talk through each shift with their supervisor about any concerns they have in order to create an effective work environment that protects them from injuries while on the job. It’s also helpful to practice good safety habits, like wearing slip-resistant shoes and keeping the work area clean and organized. Lastly, practicing good body mechanics, like standing or sitting correctly, can help workers avoid injury.
How can you know whether you qualify for workers’ compensation?
If your injury occurred while on the job and you meet your state’s workers’ compensation eligibility requirements, then you are likely eligible to file a claim. Even if you were partly at fault for your injury, workers’ compensation benefits may still be available for you. In most cases, workers who get hurt on the clock will qualify for workers’ comp benefits that can cover medical expenses and lost wages while they recover from their injuries.
If you’re a nurse, it’s important to note that employees in this line of work can be susceptible to accidents due to the nature of their job. Therefore, you should not hesitate to file a workers’ comp claim if you get injured while on the job.