We want to take a moment to thank all of the healthcare workers who are constantly working hard to keep us safe. 2020 showed us all how dedicated our healthcare workers are to their mission, and we hope to return the favor by shedding some light on the working conditions that many workers in hospitals and assisted living facilities face today. Below are some facts and figures to help you better understand the rigorous experience of a healthcare worker.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the likelihood of injury or illness resulting in days away from work is higher in hospitals than in almost every other industry, including construction and manufacturing. Hospitals record an average of 6.4 work-related injuries and illnesses for every 100 full-time workers, compared with 3.3 per 100 full-time employees for all other industries combined. One of the main reasons the risk of injury is surprisingly high is because of the frequency at which healthcare workers have to manually transfer or assist patients. A survey released from Steelcase Healthone found that one in three clinicians and nurses have experienced an injury in moving patients from bed to chair, and nearly half of those surveyed perform patient transfers more than once a week.

Nurses and aids that work in assisted living environments are just as at risk for injuries as are those working in hospitals.  Around 7% of adults over 65 years of age need assistance with personal care, including help with mobility. Of those who live at assisted living facilities, the most common activities that seniors need assistance with are bathing, then walking. Healthcare workers at long-term care facilities are at risk for back and other injuries involving manual patient transfers. See the breakdown of resident assistance needs in the image below:

Looking to the future, we hope that assisted living facilities and hospitals will work toward creating a safer and more supportive environment for healthcare workers. Using hydraulic or electric patient lifts is one step that could help limit worker injuries and providing a safer alternative to manual transfers. Focusing on scheduling and staffing appropriately to avoid burnout is another important conversation moving forward. Healthcare has always been a demanding yet essential industry and the last year has shown us how much healthcare workers go through to keep us safe. Make sure to give a big "thank you" to your medical team!

Do you enjoy reading the Med Mart blog? Follow us on Facebook to see all of our latest blogs, newest products, and exclusive promotions!