Common Injuries Suffered by Healthcare Workers in Florida
Working in the healthcare industry can be rewarding and fulfilling as a career. However, it is also essential to be aware of the risks associated with this type of work. Healthcare workers in Florida may suffer from various injuries due to the nature of their job.
The healthcare industry is one of the most dangerous places to work. Injuries suffered by healthcare workers can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries, such as back injuries, slips and falls, and even exposure to hazardous materials.
If you are a healthcare worker who has been injured at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help you cover medical expenses and lost wages. You may also be able to file a workers’ compensation lawsuit if someone else’s negligence caused your injuries.
In this article, we will discuss some of the most common injuries suffered by healthcare workers in Florida and what you can do if you have been injured while working in the healthcare industry.
Common Injuries That Occur in the Healthcare Industry
There are many dangers that healthcare workers face daily. They are constantly exposed to potential injuries, whether it’s from lifting patients, handling sharp objects, or working with hazardous chemicals. Let’s take a look at some of the most common injuries healthcare workers suffer.
Infectious Diseases
One of the risks healthcare workers face is exposure to infectious diseases. Many healthcare workers like nurses are required to work with patients who have contagious diseases. If these workers do not take proper precautions, they may become infected themselves.
There are a variety of ways healthcare workers can contract an infection from a patient.
These include:
- Touching a contaminated surface and then touching their face
- Having contact with a patient’s bodily fluids
- Being pricked or cut by a contaminated needle
If a healthcare worker becomes infected with a disease, it can have serious consequences. They may miss work and incur medical bills. In some cases, the healthcare worker may even die from an infection like tuberculosis, hepatitis, or HIV.
If you are a healthcare worker who has contracted an infection from a patient, it is important to seek medical attention right away. You should also contact a workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
Back Injuries
Another common injury healthcare workers suffer are back injuries. These can be caused by lifting patients, carrying equipment, or even sitting in a chair for long periods of time.
Back injuries can range from minor strains and sprains to herniated discs and spinal cord injuries. If you suffer a back injury while working in healthcare, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
These benefits can help you cover medical expenses and lost wages. You may also be able to file a workers’ compensation lawsuit if someone else’s negligence caused your injuries.
Slips and Falls
Workers in any industry can suffer a slip and fall accident, but healthcare workers are especially susceptible. Slips and falls often occur in hospital settings when workers are rushing to provide care or are carrying heavy equipment. These accidents can cause serious injuries, including fractures, head injuries, and back injuries.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. You may also have a valid personal injury claim against the property owner or manager if your accident was caused by dangerous conditions. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you recover the benefits you deserve.
Cuts and Lacerations
One of the most common injuries healthcare workers suffer is cuts and lacerations. These can occur from sharp objects, such as needles or scalpels, or from coming into contact with rough surfaces, like exposed metal or concrete. Healthcare workers are also at risk of suffering cuts and lacerations from falls, being hit by falling objects, or being involved in car accidents while on the job.
Cuts and lacerations can be serious, depending on their location and severity. They may require stitches or even surgery to close the wound.
In some cases, cuts and lacerations can lead to infection, which can be life-threatening. Healthcare workers who suffer these types of injuries should seek medical attention immediately and consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss their legal options.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for a Healthcare Worker Injury in Florida
If you are a healthcare worker who has been injured on the job in Florida, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation is a system of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured while working. In Florida, workers’ compensation is mandatory for most employers, and healthcare workers are covered under the workers’ compensation system.
If you are injured while working in a healthcare setting, report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. You will need to fill out a workers’ compensation claim form and provide information about the injury, including how it occurred and what medical treatment you have received. Once your employer receives the claim form, they will have 7 days to file a report with the workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
Contact Avard Law Offices to Discuss Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you have been injured while working in healthcare, it is important to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney about your legal options. At Avard Law Offices, our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers can help you understand the benefits you are entitled to and will fight to get you the maximum amount of compensation.
Why Choose Avard Law Offices?
- Over 30 years of experience
- Dedicated to protecting the rights of injured workers
- Personalized attention and aggressive representation
- Millions of dollars recovered for our clients
We at Avard Law Offices understand how difficult it can be to deal with a work-related injury. We will handle every aspect of your case so that you can focus on your recovery.
For more information or to schedule a free consultation with one of our workers’ compensation lawyers, please call us at (888) 685-7930 or contact us online.