Hospital Cusatodian Safety & Health Technician

Course Description

Nurses and other healthcare workers face many safety and health hazards in their work environments and experience some of the highest rates of non-fatal occupational injuries and illnesses of any industry sector. In 2012, injuries and illnesses reported for nursing and residential care workers were significantly higher than those in construction and were two to three times higher than those in retail or manufacturing. Almost half of the injuries and illnesses reported for nurses and nursing support staff were musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), with rates for nursing assistants (225.8) nearly four times higher than the average for all workers (37.8).

Musculoskeletal disorders affect the muscles, nerves, and tendons and are a leading cause of lost workday injuries and illnesses among healthcare and social assistance workers, particularly in nursing homes and residential care facilities. Work-related MSDs commonly involve the neck, upper extremities, and lower back. Examples include muscle strains, low back injuries, rotator cuff injuries affecting the shoulders, and tendinitis.

What You'll Learn

• Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to define ergonomics and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
• Recognize the signs and symptoms of MSD injuries and identify risk factors for MSDs.
• Specify controls and practices to eliminate and reduce ergonomic risk factors and hazards.
• Specify how to report symptoms and hazards and identify the elements of a successful ergonomics program.

Who Should Attend

Learn the principles of ergonomics and their applications. Learn about the proper use of equipment, tools, and other healthcare controls Use good work practices, including proper lifting techniques for patients. Become more aware of work tasks that may lead to pain or injury in a healthcare facility. Recognize early symptoms of MSDs. Understand the importance of reporting and addressing early indications of MSDs before serious injury develops.