In a recent article in Safety and Health Magazine, researchers say that nurses and other medical professionals are facing a new type of trauma.

In a recent article in Safety and Health Magazine, researchers say that nurses and other medical professionals are facing a new type of trauma.  Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses and other health care professionals across the country have reported a lack of masks, gloves, gowns and other protective gear to keep them safe while caring for patients with the coronavirus.

Staffing issues were reported by nurses who had to work shifts longer than 12 hours and who were exposed to unsafe situations that jeopardized patient safety. These were described as hurrying through tasks to complete them, falsifying patient care documents, and going without food and hydration during their shifts.  The nurses said they experience a range of negative emotions, such as stress, anxiety, grief, guilt, anger, burnout, and flashbacks. Physically, nurses reported nightmares, unhealthy diets, and substance use.

This brings up the question.. should mental health in the workplace be part of the health and safety pro’s responsibility?

https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/20075-researchers-say-nurses-face-new-type-of-trauma-insufficient-resources

DQ2 Good Communication in OSH

To be effective, it is critical that your company’s safety and health policy be communicated to all employees.  As a new OSH professional, what are some ways that you would ensure that all employees understood the policies and procedures for a safe working environment?