The nursing profession is a demanding field that requires constant attention to patient care. The fast-paced nature of the work puts nurses at risk of slips, trips and falls that lead to workers’ compensation claims.
Understanding the most common causes of these injuries can help healthcare workers and administrators take steps to mitigate those risks.
Wet or slippery floors
Spilled liquids and water on the floor from cleaning and disinfecting surfaces can lead to slip hazards that cause serious injuries. Nurses often move at a rapid pace to meet patient needs and attend to emergencies, so they may not see a wet floor hazard until it is too late. Addressing spills and wet surfaces immediately can reduce these risks, as can wearing non-slip footwear.
Obstacles
Another common cause of trip and fall injuries for nurses is obstacles in the way. With medical equipment, cables and furniture often obstructing pathways, nurses may experience injuries when moving quickly between patient rooms or beds. Establish procedures to keep patient access clear of any obstructions to minimize this risk.
Rushed movements
When nurses struggle with demanding schedules and excessive patient rosters, they might rush through routine activities in an attempt to keep up with the demands of the shift. This often leads to mistakes or overlooking a hazard in the way. Adequate staffing for patient volume and sufficient time for patient care reduces these risks.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported more than 5,300 slip, trip and fall injuries resulting in missed work time for nurses in 2020. Proper training, adequate staffing and careful attention to the work environment can protect nurses and other medical professionals from many slip and fall hazards without sacrificing patient care.
