Top Workers' Compensation Claims in Healthcare

Healthcare workers dedicate their lives to caring for others, but the nature of their work often exposes them to significant risks that can lead to workplace injuries. From physically demanding tasks to exposure to infectious diseases, healthcare settings present unique challenges that require proactive measures to ensure worker safety. Addressing these risks not only protects employees but also fosters a culture of safety, reduces workers' compensation claims, and helps organizations manage their total cost of risk.

By understanding the most common workers' compensation claims in healthcare, organizations can implement targeted prevention strategies to safeguard their workforces and create safer, more resilient environments.

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders

Situation

Working in healthcare can be physically demanding. Lifting, transferring, and repositioning patients can cause strains and sprains when done improperly or because of inadequate help. It's estimated that roughly 30% to 40% of workers' compensation claims are a result of musculoskeletal and overextension injuries.

Prevention and Mitigation

Safe patient-handling programs should be a cornerstone of implementing comprehensive strategies to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Using mechanical lifting devices and assistive tools to minimize manual lifting can reduce strain, while ergonomic training and equipment — such as adjustable-height beds, anti-fatigue mats, and ergonomic workstations — can further mitigate risks associated with repetitive motions and awkward postures.

2. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Situation

Unsafe working environments, including wet floors, uneven surfaces, equipment cords, and cluttered hallways, can contribute to workplace injuries such as fractures, sprains, or head injuries.

Prevention and Mitigation

Taking preventive action can significantly reduce the probability of slips, trips, and falls. Maintaining clutter-free work environments, ensuring proper lighting, and promptly addressing hazards such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, and loose cords is an easy to way to avoid accidents. Conducting regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implementing corrective actions ensures a proactive approach to safety. Lastly, training employees on awareness and prevention techniques, such as proper footwear use and hazard identification, fosters a safety culture.

3. Needlestick and Sharps Injuries

Situation

Healthcare workers are required to handle hazardous objects, and even the most cautious are subject to risks. Handling needles, scalpels, or other sharp medical equipment can lead to puncture wounds or exposure to blood-borne pathogens, such as HIV, hepatitis, and more. These injuries not only pose immediate physical harm but also carry risks that can lead to potential long-term health consequences and costly medical treatments.

Prevention and Mitigation

Training employees on safe handling techniques, including the use of safety engineered devices, and fostering awareness of sharps-related hazards are equally important. Regular education programs should emphasize the importance of not recapping needles, using sharps disposal containers immediately after use, and adhering to infection control protocols.

Conducting risk assessments to identify high-risk areas and tasks allows organizations to proactively address vulnerabilities. Additionally, establishing a clear reporting system for needlestick incidents ensures timely medical evaluation and helps identify patterns to improve prevention strategies.

4. Violence and Assault

Situation

Violent incidents in healthcare settings have steadily been on the rise as a result of aggressive patients, visitors, or workplace conflicts. Healthcare workers are particularly vulnerable to violence due to the high-stress nature of the environment, interactions with aggressive patients or visitors, and the emotional intensity of care delivery. In fact, healthcare workers are five times more likely to experience workplace violence than employees in other industries. See Safeguarding Care: Addressing the Rise of Workplace Violence in Healthcare.

Prevention and Mitigation

To mitigate the risk of workplace violence, healthcare organizations must implement comprehensive prevention programs that include clear policies, staff training, and security measures. Training employees in de-escalation techniques, conflict resolution, and recognition of early warning signs of aggression can better allow them to respond effectively and reduce the likelihood of violent incidents. Physical security measures, such as surveillance systems, panic buttons, and controlled access to sensitive areas, further enhance safety. Establishing protocols for reporting and responding to incidents ensures timely intervention and supports affected employees. Regular risk assessments can help identify high-risk areas, such as emergency departments or psychiatric units, and allow organizations to allocated resources strategically.

5. Exposure to Infectious Diseases and Harmful Pathogens

Situation

Healthcare workers are constantly exposed to contaminants, whether through infected patients in their care or contaminated materials on-site. Respiratory infections, such as influenza, tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C, HIV, and MRSA are prevalent in healthcare settings.¹ Environmental risks, such as mold exposure and legionella bacteria, can result from water damage and contaminated water systems.

Prevention and Mitigation

Preventing exposure to infectious diseases and harmful pathogens in healthcare settings is vital to protect employees, ensure patient safety, and reduce the total cost of risk. To mitigate these risks, healthcare organizations must implement robust infection control programs that include the use of personal protective equipment — such as gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields — to minimize direct exposure. Adherence to strict hand hygiene protocols and regular disinfection of high-touch surfaces are essential to reduce the spread of pathogens. Vaccination programs for healthcare workers, including immunizations against influenza, hepatitis B, and other preventable diseases, further enhance protection.

Organizations should also ensure proper ventilation and air filtration systems, particularly in high-risk areas such as isolation rooms and operating theaters, to reduce airborne transmission. Training employees on infection prevention techniques, including proper handling of contaminated materials and waste, fosters awareness and compliance. Conducting regular risk assessments to identify potential sources of exposure and implementing corrective actions ensures a proactive approach to safety.

Conclusion

Preventing workplace injuries in healthcare settings is essential to protecting employees, ensuring patient safety, and reducing the financial and operational impact of workers' compensation claims. By addressing the most common risks, healthcare organizations can take a proactive approach to safety. Key strategies to mitigate these hazards include implementing safe patient-handling programs; fostering a culture of awareness and training; using protective equipment; and conducting regular risk assessments.

A commitment to prevention not only prioritizes the wellbeing of healthcare workers but also strengthens organizational resilience and reduces the total cost of risk, allowing healthcare providers to focus on their mission of delivering quality care.