While there is a multitude of ways that nurses in Georgia, and around the country, can get hurt at work, there are also many steps that they can take to minimize their injury risk. For instance, those who wash their hands on a regular basis can reduce their risk of getting sick. The same is true of those who get a flu shot or other vaccinations designed to boost a person’s immune system.
Individuals are advised to wear masks, goggles, and gloves when they are in close proximity to their patients. Doing so can prevent pathogens from getting into a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth. A nurse who is confronted with a violent or angry patient is encouraged to ask for help dealing with that individual. Nurses should also ask for help if they are having problems moving a patient or other heavy objects that need to be relocated.
Ideally, those who spot workplace hazards will take steps to mitigate them. For instance, an individual who sees a loose cord or a ripped carpet should either remove the items or find someone who will do so. Finally, nurses may be able to reduce their risk of getting hurt at work by getting plenty of sleep. Those who are adequately rested are less likely to get into car accidents or make other mistakes that could hurt themselves and others.
A nurse who is injured while handling a patient or a needle may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. The same may be true of those who become ill after interacting with a sick patient. In many cases, workers are entitled to benefits even if they were partially responsible for the events that caused their sore back or broken bones. An attorney may help an individual pursue compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
