Registered nurses face a variety of injuries because of the kind of work they do.
Here are three top observances concerning such injuries from a study published under the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
About the study
Approximately 3 million registered nurses work in many industries across the country. They face a variety of hazards capable of producing mild to severe injuries. Findings of a 2016 study were cited in the Monthly Labor Review, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and touched on the many aspects of nursing injuries.
Sources of injuries
The healthcare patients RNs deal with daily are the main source of the injuries they suffer, such as sprains, strains and tears. In 2016, these represented 51% of all RN injuries. However, floors, walkways and ground sources account for the largest number of falls, slips and trips. The need to lift patients and move them around can result in back injuries and musculoskeletal disorders to muscles, tendons, nerves, joints and spinal discs. Nurses are also at risk for injuries involving hazardous substances, needle-sticks, radiation and chemicals used for cleaning.
Three top takeaways
The 2016 study highlighted nonfatal occupational injuries for registered nurses. The three top takeaways from the findings indicated that
– RNs experienced a higher-than-average rate of musculoskeletal disorders
– overexertion and bodily reaction caused the majority of illnesses and injuries
– the circumstances resulting in nonfatal injuries and illnesses varied by worker age
Nurses normally qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, which will not only cover their medical expenses but also lost wages. For example, the study showed that in 2016, musculoskeletal disorders to RNs accounted for 8,730 days away from work.