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As parts of
the world slowly recover from the devastating effects of the
COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of healthcare worker safety has
become a widespread topic. Inadequate allocation of safety and
personal protective equipment is dangerous to the health and
wellbeing of healthcare staff and patients. We need to invest in
safety equipment for unique challenges of coronavirus, and the
everyday challenges healthcare workers face.
A report from Public Citizen found
that more injuries occur to healthcare workers than those in any
other industry.
Rates of
injuries involving days spent away from work (per 10,000 workers)
The National Patient Safety Foundation
(USA) has stated that prioritising the well-being and safety
of healthcare workers is required for a stronger patient safety
culture. They suggested that workforce support should include
providing proper equipment and comprehensive training, and
addressing low morale, professional burnout, and lack of staff
engagement.
A systematic focus on healthcare worker safety has been reported to
have the following flow-on effects:
Increased quality of patient care and service
Efficient patient flow
Decreased absenteeism and overtime
Reduced lost time (caused by injuries or
sickness)
Reduced need for agency staff (lower costs)
Higher staff retention
Improved communication and teamwork
Higher work satisfaction and productivity
A healthier, stable workforce
To learn more about how your facility can translate staff and
patient safety goals into practice, read our blog below.
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