A healthy workplace can save lives and prevent health issues for professionals, patients, visitors, and pets alike. A culture of safety and security is paramount for success and great performance. This applies to work cultures in nearly all industries, but it is especially important for those in the healthcare field. As a medical worker, you may be exposed to multiple challenges throughout the day that can be a threat to the health and safety of you and others around you if you’re not well informed and attentive. Here are three important tips you should know about nurse safety in the U.S.
1. Be Mindful of Sharp Objects
Health care workers may experience minor injuries from sharp objects hundreds, if not thousands of times a year. Small cuts may seem insignificant, but they can easily lead to a plethora of health issues, some of which can even be fatal. Always be mindful and attentive when using sharp objects. Check your hands after use of a sharp object and if you notice an injury, clean and bandage it immediately.
2. Be Cautious of Hazardous Drug Administration
Make sure that you are aware of any special handling requirements when it comes to administering drugs to patients. Some drugs will require extra layers of physical protection, while others could require something different. Discuss this with your pharmacy or another professional to ensure you remain protected and safe.
3. Prioritize Safety At All Times
Humans and pets can be unpredictable. Hospitals and healthcare facilities can be stressful environments for all beings. If you sense that a violent scene is imminent or you happen to witness one as it is in action, always take the necessary steps to disrupt the violence by either calling authorities, informing the person you report to, or executing a plan to exit safely.
For more information on nurse safety tips, contact Sharp Fluidics.
