Nursing is among the world’s most noble professions, but the job can be genuinely hazardous. Luckily, there are several safety tips nurses in Florida can follow to help reduce their risk of work-related injuries and illnesses.
One of the most important safety tips is for nurses to regularly wash their hands to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria. This is a basic task that most nurses take seriously, but it can sometimes be overlooked in a busy work environment. Another critical tip is for nurses to use lift and transfer equipment when moving patients. This is essential for avoiding back injuries, muscle strains and falls. Along the same line, nurses should always practice good body mechanics, be on the lookout for trip hazards and be sure to ask for help lifting patients or objects if they need it.
Another vital tip is for nursing professionals to get vaccinated for the flu and immunized against pathogens like hepatitis B, tetanus, diphtheria, the mumps, the measles, and rubella, which will protect them from any infectious diseases that may be present in the hospital. It is also important for nurses to practice safe needle handling. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, approximately 1,000 health care professionals suffer sharps-related injuries each day across the U.S. Likewise, nurses should always wear personal protective equipment, including gloves, gowns, masks and eye protection, whenever they are working around a patient’s body fluids. Finally, nurses should get plenty of sleep and practice good self-care to promote overall wellness.
Nursing professionals who are forced to miss work due to job-related injuries are generally eligible to file for workers’ compensation benefits. If approved, these benefits will cover medical expenses and provide wage-replacement payments while a nurse is recovering. Applicants might find it advisable to have the help of an experienced attorney throughout the process.
