Rhode Island healthcare workers given choice: flu shots or masks
Rhode Island may be diminutive geographically speaking, but it is mighty when it comes to trying to protect healthcare workers and patients from the flu.
Healthcare worker, have you had your Flu shot?
Fall flu vaccination campaigns are already in full swing in communities and at workplaces around the country.
Needlestick & sharps risks require constant vigilance
A nurse-friend of mine who recently assumed responsibility for workers’ compensation case management in a regional health system reports needlestick and sharps injuries – not musculoskeletal disorders – are the bane of her existence.
Occupational health nursing trends and opportunities
Workplace health and safety is not just about being compliant with regulatory agencies. Although health care organizations are highly regulated and the hazards are diverse, caring for employees requires a “whole-person’ approach.
The Affordable Care Act: the most likely outcomes
In my last blog, I discussed the background and main issues regarding The Affordable Care Act, which may be the most significant event in the history of employee health since the creation of OSHA.
The Affordable Care Act: you be the judge
In late June, the United States Supreme Court is expected to rule on the constitutional challenge to the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This ruling may be the most significant event in the history of employee health since President Nixon signed the act creating the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 1970.
Patient lifting
Hospitals had the highest number of injuries and illnesses of any industry at 258,000 in 2010. These are facilities that we expect to be among the safest, yet they are the most dangerous. What causes this? From my observations it comes down to short-staffing and lack of time.
Healthcare employee illness & injury rates – infographic
In last week’s blog, we explored the staggering statistics around workplace injuries and illnesses. The data showed that healthcare employees are more likely to suffer a work-related injury/illness than employees in sectors traditionally thought to be extremely dangerous — such as mining or construction.
Safety, an avenue for occupational health nurses
To commemorate National Nurses Week, which concludes Saturday, I want to give a shout out to occupational health nurses (OHNs), who through tireless efforts touch countless lives with caring hands and practical advice every day in the workplace. The week is sponsored by the American Nurses Association, which supports a virtual Center for Occupational and […]
Workplace health & safety by the numbers – infographic
In the past 3 years, we’ve seen a 42% increase in the number of workplace illnesses. In fact, 2010 data shows that 21% of all U.S. workers are hit by workplace illnesses.