Workplace injuries are surprisingly common. It is even more shocking that these are all preventable.
According to National Safety Council, after every 7 seconds someone gets injured while working. However, regardless of the precautionary measures, we are going to let you know about most common first aids. The treatment given depends on the type of injury.
Whatever the disaster is, there are some steps common to each.
- Call for help and remove the patient from the source simultaneously.
- Do not try to put anything in mouth if the patient is unconscious.
- In case of unconsciousness, tilt the patient’s head to one side and remove any tight clothing.
- Then after providing first aid, take the patient to the nearest healthcare center.
1. Needle stick injury
This type of injury mostly occurs to the healthcare professionals. It takes place when a person gets pricked accidently from any contaminated sharps. This is what to do in such case:
- Let the wound bleed by milking the finger.
Check the infection status of the patient. If the patient has hepatitis or any other blood borne disease, contact your workers compensation doctor. If viral status is unknown, follow the standard legal protocol of that hospital for further management.
2. Burn
These injuries are more common at the places like kitchens or other cooking areas. Wash the affected area with plenty of cold water. Avoid using ice as it can cause frostbite. Applying a thin film of oil at the spot can prevent blister formation.
3. Fractures
These involve the breaking of bone (s). The first thing is to mobilize the affected area by applying splints. This will temporarily support the bone and will prevent further damage. Furthermore, it will tend to lessen the pain. Icepack application is recommended for swelling control and hence, easing the pain. If the overlying skin is lacerated, treat accordingly.
4. Lacerations
These sorts of injuries are acquired on the jobs that include cookery. The simplest and the easiest treatment is
- To apply pressure on the wound in order to stop bleeding.
- This should be followed by elevation of the affected area above the level of heart.
- If the cut is minor, ice pack application can stop the bleeding.
5. Ingestion of harmful substances
Here is something not, in fact, never to do, vomiting. Vomiting could only magnify the damage by:
- Aspiration of the contents leading to pneumonia or chocking.
- Passing through the esophagus for the second time and re-damaging.
So, if someone swallows a liquid, simply remove if any of this is remained in the mouth. If the patient vomits, turn his head to one side.
6. Fumes inhalation
If it occurs, bring the person to fresh air as early as possible and remove the source of fumes.
7. Ophthalmic injuries
If eyes come in contact with toxic substance, avoid forceful closure of eyes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm or cold water.
8. Sprains
It is not uncommon to get your ankle or wrist wrenched during work. Apply ice pack to the affected area and seek medical help for further treatment.
The above are some safe steps which must be taken in case of workplace accidents before taking the proper treatment.