The nursing industry can be a dangerous one, but with the following 10 tips, nurses in California and across the U.S. may avoid most injuries and illnesses. It all starts with how they live outside of work. Healthy diet and exercise are essential; otherwise, the immune system will only grow weak. The second tip, to obtain plenty of sleep, is important for similar reasons.
Next, nurses would do well to be up-to-date on immunizations, particularly the flu vaccination. Fourth, they should be immunized against bacterial infections like tetanus and diphtheria and viruses like hepatitis B. To avoid exposure to patients’ bodily fluids, nurses must wear the right personal protective equipment, such as gowns, gloves, masks and eye protection. Perhaps above all else, nurses should wash their hands to prevent illness.
Safe needle handling is the sixth tip. Needles should not be recapped, nor should connection systems be used if they are unnecessary. Next, nurses will want to avoid slip and fall incidents and ergonomic injuries by looking out for hazards like debris on the floor and always practicing good body mechanics.
Lifting patients or dealing with violent patients should never be done alone. The ninth tip, then, is to speak up or to step up for assistance. Lastly, lifting could be much easier with lift and transfer equipment.
When workplace safety is being compromised, accidents will occur. Fortunately for nurses who are injured on the job, they may be reimbursed for their medical expenses and for a percentage of their lost income thanks to the workers’ compensation program. They may receive benefits regardless of who or what caused the incident. In the event that their claim is denied, though, they may need to file an appeal. For help with this and other steps, victims may hire a lawyer.
