Nursing is a physically demanding job. Between standing all day, lifting objects and using medical tools, nurses can be at a high risk of developing musculoskeletal injuries related to poor biomechanics. In fact, a study showed that health care workers who handle patients as part of their jobs often suffer from work-related musculoskeletal disorders. As a result of these injuries, nurses can miss days of work.
To avoid developing musculoskeletal disorders at work, nurses can make sure that their tools are ergonomic and safe. It’s important for nurses to learn what safety features they should look for in tools before investing in them. Doing so can help them avoid ergonomic injuries in the future.
3 features of safe nurse tools to look out for
Nurses require a variety of tools to perform their jobs well. Stethoscopes, pens, comfortable shoes and personal protective equipment should not only function properly but should feel effective as well. This way, nurses can protect both themselves and their patients while on the job.
Safe nurse tools can promote good posture, mobility and energy levels, as well as reduce their risk of injury. Safe nurse tools should include the following features:
- Comfort — Nurses often work 12-hour shifts, and the majority of those shifts are on their feet. Wearing supportive and comfortable shoes can prevent foot and joint pain among nurses, keeping their body aligned throughout the day. In addition to shoes, a nurse’s scrubs should be comfortable, breathable and loose in order to maintain mobility and avoid injuries.
- Grip — Tools with nonslip surfaces and good grip can help protect nurses from injuries related to slips, trips and falls. It is especially important for nurses to find shoes with nonslip bottoms so that they are less likely to fall while on shift. Other nursing tools — like pens, scissors and gloves — should also have good grip technology and padding to prevent hand pain throughout the day.
- Durability — Personal protective equipment like gloves and masks keep nurses safe from airborne and contact germs. When these protective items are overused or damaged, nurses and patients alike can risk injuries from infection. To prevent this, gloves and masks should be durable. They should protect nurses from spilled liquids and airborne contagions. They should also be disposed of right away, immediately after use, to maintain safety.
Work-Fit can help you identify safe nurse tools
Nurses use specific tools on a daily basis to help them treat patients and record data. Because they get so much use, these tools need to be screened for safety. Our team at Work-Fit can help nurses and employees in the medical field find tools that are safe for the body. Contact our team today for more information about our services or to learn how we can help keep your employees safe.
