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Atkinson Gerber Law Office
Injured? Take Action Now!

Work in a hospital? You may be at high risk for a back injury.

On Behalf of | Jun 1, 2017 | Work Injury |

Doctors, nurses and other individuals who work in Minnesota hospitals face a number of risks to their health and safety every time they show up at work. One of the most significant risks is that of a back injury, often related to patient handling and overexertion. Back injuries may be common among hospital workers, but the recovery from these types of injuries can be both complicated and painful.

If you suffered a back injury while working in a hospital, you still have the right to workers’ compensation benefits. However, due to the complexity of the insurance system and other factors, it can be difficult to actually obtain these benefits and secure what you need for a full recovery and eventual return to work.

Why are hospitals so dangerous? 

Hospitals are places where people go for healing, yet the people who provide health care services often do so at the risk of their own health and safety. In an effort to help people who cannot help themselves, nurses and other care providers may be inclined to lift, move and shift patients for the sake of treatment and comfort.

According to statistics gathered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, hospital workers are more at risk for injury than individuals who work in construction or manufacturing. Some of the most common reasons for injuries in hospitals include:

  • Overexertion
  • Sprains and strains
  • Slip-and-falls or trip-and-falls
  • Contact with dangerous objects and violence

Lifting, bending, reaching and other issues related to patient handling caused nearly half of the injuries suffered by hospital workers. Back injuries of any kind are painful, and the damage and pain may only become worse the longer the individual continues to perform the same stressful tasks.

Recovering from your back injury

Suffering a back injury can have a serious impact on your life. You may not be able to work, enjoy normal activities or take care of your family without pain. In other serious cases, surgery is required to repair damage. Whether you need rest and therapy or something much more extensive, you have the right to medical care and whatever else is required for a full recovery.

It can be beneficial to secure the assistance of an attorney to help you navigate the workers’ compensation claims process. From filing your initial claim to any necessary appeals, having a legal ally to advocate for your interests can give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on a full recovery from your back injury.

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