Back Injury Among Healthcare Workers : Causes, Solutions, and Impacts

Back injury among healthcare providers is a visible issue in the occupational health and safety arena. This book presents research and information on this topic from an epidemiological, legal, and equipment manufacturing point of view. It analyzes back injuries from the worker's point of view.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recently calculated nearly 60,000 musculoskeletal injuries to healthcare workers resulting from heavy lifting during attempts to move patients. Often the nurses, aides, orderlies, and attendants who suffered permanent injuries were forced out of the profession, straining an already inadequate pool of workers and wasting valuable knowledge and ability.

Back Injury Among Healthcare Workers: Causes, Solutions, and Impacts presents the latest research on this topic from an epidemiological point of view. The book highlights case studies from actual injured workers, along with analysis of how this problem is being addressed around the world.

This in-depth study also discusses the legal and rehabilitative obstacles to returning to work, and suggests new policies for the safe lifting and moving of patients. The editors compile recommended solutions from leading names in the field, detailing how healthcare facilities can create safe work environments to prevent disabling back injuries.