Healthcare settings pose a multitude of hazards—from exposure
to pathogens and handling sharps and medications, to latex allergies and more.
One of the most pervasive hazards involves patient lifting, which can expose
caregivers to overexertion injuries and related musculoskeletal discomforts and
disorders. Nursing staff in particular have high rates of back and shoulder
injuries. In 2009, more than 23,000 lost-time cases of work-related back pain,
carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis were reported in the Healthcare and
Social Assistance sector by BLS; of these, BLS reports that more than 44% were
among healthcare support occupations such as aides and assistants. NIOSH has
updated its topics page
on safe patient handling. The site includes links to featured resources,
NIOSH publications,
NIOSH blogs, patient lifting legislation
in the U.S., additional resources
and upcoming conferences.
A Blog From the American Society of Safety Engineers