Nursing is one of the most physically demanding professions in healthcare. Every day, nurses lift, transfer and reposition patients, often placing tremendous strain on their backs and spines.
These injuries are not a new issue. Over twenty years ago, a publication in the American Journal of Critical Care notes that almost 40% of nurses report suffering from job related back pain with the vast majority suffering injury after lifting or otherwise helping to move a patient. Even then, leaders in the medical world were calling out for change, pointing to the injuries contributing, at least in part, to the growing shortage of nurses. Yet, here we are today. Still facing the same problem.
Why are so many nurses suffering from back injuries?
As noted above, the need to help patients move from one position to another is a top cause. This can lead to back injuries as well as neck and shoulder injuries. Reasons range from overexertion to a lack of tools to help with safe positioning like patient slings or lateral transfer devices.
What is the cost of these injuries?
It is relatively easy to look through medical bills and get an estimate of how much it cost to get the injury treated initially, but this is often just the beginning. In addition to that initial diagnostic appointment or emergency room visit, you will also need to account for ongoing rehab or physical therapy, chronic pain and difficulty returning to work.
Who pays for the injury?
If injured at work, you likely qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. The workers’ comp system is a no-fault system, meaning you do not need to prove that your employer was negligent to receive benefits. Whether you were lifting a patient alone, assisting with a transfer or repositioning someone in bed, if the injury happened while performing your job duties, you are likely covered.
Benefits typically include:
- Medical expenses including doctor visits, physical therapy, medications and any necessary surgical procedures
- Wage replacement benefits that cover a portion of your lost income while you are unable to work
- Vocational rehabilitation services if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous nursing duties
These benefits are designed to help you focus on recovery without the added stress of financial hardship. It is important to report your injury immediately to your employer and seek medical attention right away, as delays can complicate your claim.
Moving forward after your injury
Back injuries can be career-altering for nurses, but knowing your rights empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and future. If you face resistance from your employer or the insurance company denies or underpays your claim, consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney can help to better ensure you receive fair treatment and the benefits you have earned through your dedicated service to patient care.