Every workplace has different safety hazards. Overexertion of the human body is an issue in many professions, but people commonly associate overuse injuries with blue-collar work. Many others may also overuse their bodies on the job, leaving them unable to continue working.
In some cases, highly-trained medical professionals may also be at risk of overuse or overexertion injuries. The obligations to respond quickly in an emergency and to provide hands-on patient care can lead to significant injuries for those working in hospitals and other medical settings.
Overuse is a leading hospital safety concern
Hospital employees actually report more lost-time incidents than employees in any other specific private-sector work environment. They have a greater risk of injury than even construction and manufacturing professionals.
Overuse, including overexertion and bodily reaction, accounts for almost half of all lost-time incidents in hospitals. Workers may injure their shoulders trying to lift a patient or may develop repetitive strain injuries from repeatedly performing the same patient support services. Overuse injuries can be particularly difficult to treat and may have a negative impact on a medical professional’s job performance.
Thankfully, workers’ compensation can help cover treatment costs and may provide disability benefits until the medical professional can return to work. In cases where they experience lasting functional limitations, they may be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits to reduce the wages they lose.
Overuse and overexertion due to patient care responsibilities can leave medical workers in need of treatment themselves. Filing a claim for workers’ compensation benefits can help hospital employees and other medical professionals protect their financial stability after getting hurt on the job.