Being aware of these risks is the first step in mitigating them. Consider these common dangers you may encounter while working in a long-term care facility.
Lifting and transferring residents come with the risk of back injuries and muscle strains if not performed correctly. It's crucial to adhere to proper lifting techniques and use any available mechanical aids to minimize this risk.
You'll likely encounter bodily fluids such as blood, saliva or urine in your role. This exposes you to the risk of infections or even disease transmission.
Long-term care facilities can be a hotspot for the spread of contagious illnesses like influenza or other respiratory infections. Maintaining good hand hygiene is critical to reducing this risk.
The fast-paced nature of this job and your work environment can make you susceptible to slips, trips and falls. Factors like wet floors, clutter or poor lighting can contribute to these incidents.
Though a sensitive subject, it's essential to acknowledge the risk of aggression or violence from residents or their family members. Emotional stress or cognitive impairments in residents can contribute to unpredictable behavior.
The onus is on your employer to ensure a safe workplace. If you suffer an injury at work or are exposed to fluids at work, report the incident immediately to your employer and speak to an attorney knowledgeable in Workers’ Compensation law. You may be able to claim workers’ compensation to cover your medical costs, wage loss, and any long term effects of the injury or exposure.
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