Nurses are at the front line of our health care system. Unfortunately, they face some risks while on the job. According to research cited by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), nurses account for approximately half of all injuries suffered by health care workers in the United States. At Injured Workers’ Law Firm, we have the skills and experience to protect the rights of injured nurses. Here, our Virginia workers’ comp lawyer highlights the occupational hazards that nurses face.
Biological Hazards
Nurses are often exposed to biological hazards in the workplace. It comes as a consequence of their close contact with patients who may be carrying infectious diseases. The exposure can carry a risk of bloodborne pathogens as well as airborne illnesses. As an example, a nurse might accidentally suffer a needlestick injury while administering an injection. That would carry the risk of exposure.
Chemical Hazards
Registered nurses often have to handle hazardous chemicals and powerful medications. Exposure to substances like anesthetic gasses, disinfectants, and chemotherapy drugs can potentially cause health issues for a nurse. For instance, a nurse preparing chemotherapy treatments might inhale toxic vapors. Prolonged exposure can be hazardous.
Physical Hazards
Nurses face many physical hazards while working in a healthcare setting. There are risks associated with lifting and moving patients and doing repetitive motions. These activities can result in musculoskeletal injuries, back strain, or other physical ailments. For example, lifting a heavy patient without proper equipment can lead to a herniated disc or another back injury.
Radiation Hazards
Radiation is inherently dangerous. Nurses working near radiological equipment may be exposed to ionizing radiation, which can have harmful cumulative effects. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cancer and also can cause reproductive health issues. For example, a nurse assisting during X-ray procedures might receive scattered radiation if appropriate shielding is not used.
Psychological Hazards
The high-stress environment of healthcare can lead to psychological hazards such as burnout, depression, and anxiety. Factors contributing to this include long shifts, emotional demands of patient care, and high-stakes decision-making. For instance, an ICU nurse may experience emotional exhaustion from caring for critically ill patients on a regular basis. Nurses need the proper support.
Workplace Violence Hazards
Nurses may face workplace violence, including physical assaults and verbal abuse from patients or visitors. Such incidents can cause physical injuries and emotional trauma, impacting their overall well-being. For example, a patient experiencing delirium might become aggressive and attack a nurse who is simply providing care. Health care employers must have the proper security in place.
Contact Our Richmond Workers’ Comp Attorney Today
At Injured Workers’ Law Firm, our Richmond workers’ comp lawyer is standing by, ready to protect your rights. If you or your loved one is a nurse who was hurt on the job, we are here to help. Give us (804) 755-7755 or contact us online to arrange your confidential, no-commitment case review. We represent nurses in workers’ comp claims throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.