Nurses in New York and across the Unites States are exposed to a variety of workplace risks each day. While a nursing career offers numerous benefits, it’s extremely important to be aware of workplace hazards to minimize your risk of injury.
Remain healthy and safe throughout the work day by avoiding some of the most common injuries and illnesses associated with nursing. First, always make sure you clean your hands both before and after seeing patients. While this might seem like a very basic principle, practicing proper hand hygiene can go a long way in reducing your risk of becoming sick.
Second, rather than attempting to lift a patient manually, use the proper lift and transfer equipment. This can help to prevent serious back injuries, especially if you work in a busy environment where you encounter many different patients per day. Remember, it only takes one wrong move to suffer a major injury.
Third, keep an eye out for potential hazards throughout your work day. It’s important to keep your working environment free of clutter and trip hazards. If you notice something on the floor, take the time to pick it up. This can help protect you and other workers against falls, slips and trips.
Finally, make sure you remain current with your flu shots. Nurses who work in clinics, hospitals and nursing homes are at a greater risk of both acquiring the flu and transmitting it to others.
If you become injured while working, you may have to deal with expensive medical bills, lost wages due to an inability to work while you’re recovering and more. You may consider consulting with an attorney experienced in worker’s compensation claims.
