How Does Work In A Nursing Home Take A Toll On Staff?

 

Nurses who work in nursing homes have a physically demanding and difficult job. They may need workers’ compensation after a workplace injury or illness.

At the law office of Silverman, Silverman & Seligman, P.C., we understand that nursing is one of the most difficult jobs in the United States. Doctors, nurses and their supportive staff in New York and elsewhere face grueling challenges managing the health and safety of nursing home residents, many of whom have significant physical issues that can compound the difficulties of the job. As such, there are unique elements to nursing home work that can result in workplace injuries and illnesses.

Nurses and aides who work in nursing homes do not have an easy job. Their job description usually includes lifting patients and heavy equipment, handling needles and sensitive, dangerous medical equipment, correctly administering medication, interacting with multiple patients and other members of staff and making quick decisions. They also frequently deal with the deaths, injuries and serious illnesses of patients they may have become close to. Some nursing home residents, especially those who are suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, may become verbally abusive or physically violent. Also, there may be contention among nursing staff members.

Aging population contributes to nursing home staff difficulties

Those who work in nursing homes may encounter challenges that were not seen as often in earlier generations. The Baby Boomer generation is aging, and many are transitioning from senior housing and assisted living centers to nursing home facilities. Many nursing homes are understaffed, which means nurses and aides work longer hours and have more physical responsibilities than they should be expected to take on. Additionally, more patients than before are obese or suffer from serious medical conditions that can cause injuries in nurses who move, lift and transport them.

Nursing burnout can cause emotional injuries

A phenomenon known as “nurse burnout” is common among employees in nursing homes and other nursing fields. In fact, almost half of American nurses have considered leaving their jobs and doing something else. Warning signs of nurse burnout include feeling overworked and developing a low sense of overall job satisfaction, although physical concerns, such as workplace violence, bodily fatigue and job-related injuries, can also contribute to burnout. Many nurses who remain in their jobs despite feeling burnt out can develop clinical depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Nurses and aides have an important job, especially when caring for senior citizens who rely on them for their safety and well-being in their final years. Many remain in this profession despite the difficulties because they want to make a positive difference in the lives of those they care for. Nursing home employees are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if their challenging jobs result in a physical or emotional injury. It may help to consult an experienced New York workers’ compensation attorney. Silverman Law can be reached at 518 374-3373 to set up an in office or telephone appointment to review your entire situation in detail. There is no charge for an in-depth review of your injury and your case. There are few things that you can say or do that can greatly increase your benefits but an almost unlimited list of things that you can say or do that will significantly reduce or deny your benefits. Speak to US before you speak to THEM!