Top Two Common Injuries Among Care Providers and their Causes

Care providers have a vital role that can be both fulfilling and challenging. Their jobs require them to always be quick on their feet and to remain calm under pressure. Work may take a toll on their physical and emotional health, as they are constantly exposed to the risks commonly found in the care sector. No matter how careful a carer may be to avoid accidents and problems in the future, the prospect of these happening is always present. Below are the most frequently seen risks and common injuries that care providers may experience while on the job:

Common Injuries and their Causes

Manual Handling, Overexertion and Bodily Reaction

Nurses, carers, and cleaners are all at risk for manual-handling injuries, with the common injuries mostly in the shoulders, neck, arm, and hands. Musculoskeletal injuries such as back injuries, slipped discs, sprains, and strains are commonly sustained due to constant lifting and moving of people, pushing client trollies, overexertion of leg and arm muscles, and accidental slips and falls from contaminated or wet floors.

Stress and Burnout

Work-related stress is especially prevalent in the home care sector, it is commonly known as ‘caregivers’ burnout’ While it is undoubtedly rewarding, many carers experience anxiety and stress from a lot of different factors. When left unmanaged, the responsibilities and expectations can affect one’s physical, emotional, and mental health. It is then important for care providers to always have the chance to properly address if they are impacted personally and seek ways to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

What Care Providers Can Do About Common Injuries

For caregivers to be efficient in their role, they need to remember to care for themselves. The risk of common injuries among home care providers may be a part of their role, but these can be minimised and avoided with proper precautions.

Here are the types of insurance they can take out to manage the risks of accidents:

• Worker’s Compensation Insurance protects employees from work-related injuries and illnesses. If an employee is injured at work, this insurance covers their loss of earnings, medical expenses, and rehabilitation. It is compulsory for business owners in all states and territories in Australia to cover all their employees.
• Personal Accident Insurance provides cover for Individuals in the event they are unable to go to work due to an illness or injury. It is commonly purchased by individuals that are not eligible for Worker’s Compensation Insurance such as sole traders or working directors in states such as Queensland where they are not covered. This type of insurance can provide protection 24/7 with a weekly sum benefit to cover lost earnings, medical expenses, and rehabilitation.

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