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115-490: Injury is physiological damage to the living tissue of any organism, whether in humans , in other animals , or in plants . Injuries can be caused in many ways, including mechanically with penetration by sharp objects such as teeth or with blunt objects , by heat or cold, or by venoms and biotoxins . Injury prompts an inflammatory response in many taxa of animals; this prompts wound healing . In both plants and animals, substances are often released to help to occlude

230-532: A Canada Student Loan forgiveness program to encourage and support new family physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and nurses to practice in underserved rural or remote communities of the country, including communities that provide health services to First Nations and Inuit populations. In Uganda, the Ministry of Health reports that as many as 50% of staffing positions for health workers in rural and underserved areas remain vacant. As of early 2011,

345-490: A brain tumor , poison, infection, cerebral hypoxia, drug use, or the secondary effect of a TBI. Injury to the spinal cord is not immediately terminal, but it is associated with concomitant injuries, lifelong medical complications, and reduction in life expectancy. It may result in complications in several major organ systems and a significant reduction in mobility or paralysis. Spinal shock causes temporary paralysis and loss of reflexes. Unlike most other injuries, damage to

460-426: A health professional and varies greatly depending on the nature of the injury. Traffic collisions are the most common cause of accidental injury and injury-related death among humans. Injuries are distinct from chronic conditions , psychological trauma , infections , or medical procedures , though injury can be a contributing factor to any of these. Several major health organizations have established systems for

575-417: A cavity in the tissue. Burn injury is caused by contact with extreme temperature, chemicals, or radiation. The effects of burns vary depending on the depth and size. Superficial or first-degree burns only affect the epidermis , causing pain for a short period of time. Superficial partial-thickness burns cause weeping blisters and require dressing. Deep partial-thickness burns are dry and less painful due to

690-415: A common injury caused by blunt trauma to the heart. It can be difficult to diagnose, and it can have many effects on the heart, including contusions, ruptures, acute valvular disorders, arrhythmia , or heart failure . Penetrative trauma to the heart is typically caused by stab wounds or gunshot wounds. Accidental cardiac penetration can also occur in rare cases from a fractured sternum or rib. Stab wounds to

805-508: A continual threat to providers attempting to treat patients. Frequently, assault and violence in a healthcare setting goes unreported and is wrongly assumed to be part of the job. Violent incidents typically occur during one-on-one care; being alone with patients increases healthcare workers' risk of assault. In the United States, healthcare workers experience 2 ⁄ 3 of nonfatal workplace violence incidents. Psychiatric units represent

920-592: A documented history of a positive TB test result do not need to be re-tested but should instead complete a TB symptom evaluation. It is assumed that any HCP who has undergone a chest x-ray test has had a previous positive test result. When considering mental health you may see your doctor to be evaluated at your digression. It is recommended to see someone at least once a year in order to make sure that there has not been any sudden changes. Occupational stress and occupational burnout are highly prevalent among health professionals. Some studies suggest that workplace stress

1035-514: A lack of external oxygen supply. Systemic asphyxia is caused by exposure to a compound that prevents oxygen from being transported or used by the body. This can be caused by azides , carbon monoxide, cyanide , smoke inhalation , hydrogen sulfide , methemoglobinemia -inducing substances, opioids , or other systemic asphyxiants. Ventilation and oxygenation are necessary for treatment of asphyxiation, and some asphyxiants can be treated with antidotes. Injuries of overuse or overexertion can occur when

1150-614: A large number of community health workers who work outside formal healthcare institutions. Managers of healthcare services , health information technicians , and other assistive personnel and support workers are also considered a vital part of health care teams. Healthcare practitioners are commonly grouped into health professions . Within each field of expertise, practitioners are often classified according to skill level and skill specialization. "Health professionals" are highly skilled workers, in professions that usually require extensive knowledge including university-level study leading to

1265-462: A more common cause in young children. The primary concerns regarding oral injuries are that the airway is clear and that there are no concurrent injuries to other parts of the head or neck. Oral injuries may occur in the soft tissue of the face, the hard tissue of the mandible, or as dental trauma . The ear is susceptible to trauma in head injuries due to its prominent location and exposed structure. Ear injuries may be internal or external. Injuries of

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1380-407: A night. Sleep deprivation also predisposes healthcare professionals to make mistakes that may potentially endanger a patient. Especially in times like the present (2020), the hazards of health professional stem into the mental health. Research from the last few months highlights that COVID-19 has contributed greatly  to the degradation of mental health in healthcare providers. This includes, but

1495-430: A person's appearance that may negatively affect body image. Severe injury can also cause social harm. Disfiguring injuries may also result in stigma due to scarring or other changes in appearance. Certain injuries may necessitate a change in occupation or prevent employment entirely. Leisure activities are similarly limited, and athletic activities in particular may be impossible following severe injury. In some cases,

1610-611: A positive TB test) The CDC recommends either a blood test, also known as an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA), or a skin test, also known as a Mantoux tuberculin skin test (TST). A TB blood test for baseline testing does not require two-step testing. If the skin test method is used to test HCP upon hire, then two-step testing should be used. A one-step test is not recommended. The CDC has outlined further specifics on recommended testing for several scenarios. In summary: According to these recommended testing guidelines any two negative TST results within 12 months of each other constitute

1725-460: A result of traffic collisions. Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death in people under the age of 45. Blunt trauma injuries are caused by the forceful impact of an external object. Injuries from blunt trauma may cause internal bleeding and bruising from ruptured capillaries beneath the skin, abrasion from scraping against the superficial epidermis , lacerated tears on the skin or internal organs, or bone fractures . Crush injuries are

1840-446: A result of untreated epilepsy , and its effects are typically short-term. More severe injuries to the brain cause moderate TBI, which may cause confusion or lethargy, or severe TBI, which may result in a coma or a secondary brain injury. TBI is a leading cause of mortality. Approximately half of all trauma-related deaths involve TBI. Non-traumatic injuries to the brain cause acquired brain injury (ABI). This can be caused by stroke ,

1955-595: A severe form of blunt trauma damage that apply large force to a large area over a longer period of time. Penetrating trauma injuries are caused by external objects entering the tissue of the body through the skin . Low-velocity penetration injuries are caused by sharp objects, such as stab wounds , while high-velocity penetration injuries are caused by ballistic projectiles, such as gunshot wounds or injuries caused by shell fragments . Perforated injuries result in an entry wound and an exit wound, while puncture wounds result only in an entry wound. Puncture injuries result in

2070-590: A significant number of people, either as integrated within or remaining outside the formal health care system. These include practitioners in acupuncture , Ayurveda , herbalism , homeopathy , naturopathy , Reiki , Shamballa Reiki energy healing Archived 2021-01-25 at the Wayback Machine , Siddha medicine , traditional Chinese medicine , traditional Korean medicine , Unani , and Yoga . In some countries such as Canada, chiropractors and osteopaths (not to be confused with doctors of osteopathic medicine in

2185-576: A team of healthcare providers in various diagnostic units. These include radiographers , radiologists , Sonographers , medical laboratory scientists , pathologists , and related professionals. A dental care practitioner is a health worker and expert who provides care and treatment to promote and restore oral health. These include dentists and dental surgeons , dental assistants , dental auxiliaries , dental hygienists , dental nurses , dental technicians , dental therapists or oral health therapists , and related professionals. Care and treatment for

2300-572: A two-step TST. For annual screening, testing, and education, the only recurring requirement for all HCP is to receive TB education annually. While the CDC offers education materials, there is not a well defined requirement as to what constitutes a satisfactory annual education. Annual TB testing is no longer recommended unless there is a known exposure or ongoing transmission at a healthcare facility. Should an HCP be considered at increased occupational risk for TB annual screening may be considered. For HCP with

2415-751: A wide variety of professions and occupations who provide some type of healthcare service, including such direct care practitioners as physicians , nurse practitioners , physician assistants , nurses , respiratory therapists , dentists , pharmacists , speech-language pathologist , physical therapists , occupational therapists , physical and behavior therapists , as well as allied health professionals such as phlebotomists , medical laboratory scientists , dieticians , and social workers . They often work in hospitals , healthcare centers and other service delivery points, but also in academic training, research, and administration. Some provide care and treatment services for patients in private homes. Many countries have

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2530-601: Is a common issue. Practicing without a license that is valid and current is typically illegal. In most jurisdictions, the provision of health care services is regulated by the government. Individuals found to be providing medical, nursing or other professional services without the appropriate certification or license may face sanctions and criminal charges leading to a prison term. The number of professions subject to regulation, requisites for individuals to receive professional licensure , and nature of sanctions that can be imposed for failure to comply vary across jurisdictions. In

2645-475: Is a field traditionally associated with the correction of refractive errors using glasses or contact lenses, and treating eye diseases. Optometrists also provide general eye care, including screening exams for glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy and management of routine or eye conditions. Optometrists may also undergo further training in order to specialize in various fields, including glaucoma , medical retina, low vision , or paediatrics . In some countries, such as

2760-722: Is a health worker who provides care and treatment which aims to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities . These include physiatrists , physician assistants , rehabilitation nurses, clinical nurse specialists , nurse practitioners , physiotherapists , chiropractors , orthotists , prosthetists , occupational therapists , recreational therapists , audiologists , speech and language pathologists , respiratory therapists , rehabilitation counsellors , physical rehabilitation therapists , athletic trainers , physiotherapy technicians, orthotic technicians, prosthetic technicians, personal care assistants , and others. Optometry

2875-724: Is a provider of health care treatment and advice based on formal training and experience. The field includes those who work as a nurse , physician (such as family physician , internist , obstetrician , psychiatrist , radiologist , surgeon etc.), physician assistant , registered dietitian , veterinarian , veterinary technician , optometrist , pharmacist , pharmacy technician , medical assistant , physical therapist , occupational therapist , dentist , midwife , psychologist , audiologist , or healthcare scientist , or who perform services in allied health professions . Experts in public health and community health are also health professionals. The healthcare workforce comprises

2990-598: Is a type of burn caused by contact with excessive cold, causing cellular injury and deep tissue damage through the crystallization of water in the tissue. Friction burns are caused by friction with external objects, resulting in a burn and abrasion. Radiation burns are caused by exposure to ionizing radiation . Most radiation burns are sunburns caused by ultraviolet radiation or high exposure to radiation through medical treatments such as repeated radiography or radiation therapy . Electrical burns are caused by contact with electricity as it enters and passes through

3105-597: Is a vaccine available, like with hepatitis B. In epidemic situations, such as the 2014-2016 West African Ebola virus epidemic or the 2003 SARS outbreak , healthcare workers are at even greater risk, and were disproportionately affected in both the Ebola and SARS outbreaks. In general, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is the first-line mode of protection for healthcare workers from infectious diseases. For it to be effective against highly contagious diseases, personal protective equipment must be watertight and prevent

3220-704: Is according to the sub-field in which they practice, such as mental health care, pregnancy and childbirth care, surgical care, rehabilitation care, or public health. A mental health professional is a health worker who offers services to improve the mental health of individuals or treat mental illness . These include psychiatrists , psychiatry physician assistants , clinical, counseling, and school psychologists , occupational therapists , clinical social workers , psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners , marriage and family therapists , mental health counselors , as well as other health professionals and allied health professions. These health care providers often deal with

3335-451: Is also well protected from injury due to its heavy layering, its extensive blood supply, and its position relative to the rib cage . As with pancreatic injuries, most traumatic stomach injuries are caused by penetrative trauma, and most civilian weapons do not cause long-term tissue damage to the stomach. Blunt trauma injuries to the stomach are typically caused by traffic accidents. Ingestion of corrosive substances can cause chemical burns to

3450-595: Is another aspect of injury treatment. Pain serves as an indicator to determine the nature and severity of an injury, but it can also worsen an injury, reduce mobility, and affect quality of life. Analgesic drugs are used to reduce the pain associated with injuries, depending on the person's age, the severity of the injury, and previous medical conditions that may affect pain relief. NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen are commonly used for acute pain. Opioid medications such as fentanyl , methadone , and morphine are used to treat severe pain in major trauma, but their use

3565-586: Is another potential occupational risk. These drugs can cause cancer and other health conditions. Female health care workers may face specific types of workplace-related health conditions and stress. According to the World Health Organization , women predominate in the formal health workforce in many countries and are prone to musculoskeletal injury (caused by physically demanding job tasks such as lifting and moving patients) and burnout. Female health workers are exposed to hazardous drugs and chemicals in

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3680-423: Is commonly used to treat injuries. Emergency medicine during major trauma prioritizes the immediate consideration of life-threatening injuries that can be quickly addressed. The airway is evaluated, clearing bodily fluids with suctioning or creating an artificial airway if necessary. Breathing is evaluated by evaluating motion of the chest wall and checking for blood or air in the pleural cavity . Circulation

3795-421: Is dedicated to the treatment of injuries. The World Health Organization has developed a classification of injuries in humans by categories including mechanism, objects/substances producing injury, place of occurrence, activity when injured and the role of human intent. In addition to physical harm, injuries can cause psychological harm, including post-traumatic stress disorder . In plants, injuries result from

3910-441: Is estimated to affect over 125 million women and girls worldwide as of 2018. Tears and abrasions to the vagina are common during sexual intercourse, and these may be exacerbated in instances of non-consensual sexual activity. Injuries to the respiratory tract affect the lungs , diaphragm , trachea , bronchus , pharynx , or larynx . Tracheobronchial injuries are rare and often associated with other injuries. Bronchoscopy

4025-466: Is evaluated to resuscitate the patient, including the application of intravenous therapy . Disability is evaluated by checking for responsiveness and reflexes. Exposure is then used to examine the patient for external injury. Following immediate life-saving procedures, a CT scan is used for a more thorough diagnosis. Further resuscitation may be required, including ongoing blood transfusion, mechanical ventilation and nutritional support. Pain management

4140-504: Is in the training and authority to provide surgical services and other life-saving interventions. In some developing countries, traditional birth attendants , or traditional midwives, are the primary source of pregnancy and childbirth care for many women and families, although they are not certified or licensed. According to research, rates for unhappiness among obstetrician-gynecologists (Ob-Gyns) range somewhere between 40 and 75 percent. A geriatric care practitioner plans and coordinates

4255-478: Is limited due to associated long-term risks such as addiction. Complications may arise as a result of certain injuries, increasing the recovery time, further exasperating the symptoms, or potentially causing death. The extent of the injury and the age of the injured person may contribute to the likelihood of complications. Infection of wounds is a common complication in traumatic injury, resulting in diagnoses such as pneumonia or sepsis . Wound infection prevents

4370-418: Is necessary for an accurate diagnosis of tracheobronchial injury. The neck, including the pharynx and larynx, is highly vulnerable to injury due to its complex, compacted anatomy. Injuries to this area can cause airway obstruction . Ingestion of corrosive chemicals can cause chemical burns to the larynx. Inhalation of toxic materials can also cause serious injury to the respiratory tract. Severe trauma to

4485-580: Is not limited to, anxiety, depression/burnout, and insomnia. A study done by Di Mattei et al. (2020) revealed that 12.63% of COVID nurses and 16.28% of other COVID healthcare workers reported extremely severe anxiety symptoms at the peak of the pandemic. In addition, another study was conducted on 1,448 full time employees in Japan. The participants were surveyed at baseline in March 2020 and then again in May 2020. The result of

4600-412: Is often necessary to treat blood loss. Other complications of injuries include cavitation, development of fistulas, and organ failure. Injuries often cause psychological harm in addition to physical harm. Traumatic injuries are associated with psychological trauma and distress, and some victims of traumatic injuries will display symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder during and after the recovery of

4715-523: Is pervasive in the health care industry because of inadequate staffing levels , long work hours , exposure to infectious diseases and hazardous substances leading to illness or death, and in some countries threat of malpractice litigation. Other stressors include the emotional labor of caring for ill people and high patient loads. The consequences of this stress can include substance abuse , suicide , major depressive disorder , and anxiety , all of which occur at higher rates in health professionals than

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4830-426: Is rarely injured in blunt trauma, occurring in about 2% of blunt abdominal trauma cases. Injuries to the gallbladder are typically associated with injuries to other abdominal organs. The intestines are susceptible to injury following blunt abdominal trauma. The kidneys are protected by other structures in the abdomen, and most injuries to the kidney are a result of blunt trauma. Kidney injuries typically cause blood in

4945-464: Is reported most severe in 57 of the poorest countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Nurses are the most common type of medical field worker to face shortages around the world. There are numerous reasons that the nursing shortage occurs globally. Some include: inadequate pay, a large percentage of working nurses are over the age of 45 and are nearing retirement age, burnout, and lack of recognition. Incentive programs have been put in place to aid in

5060-532: Is some evidence that cognitive-behavioral therapy , relaxation training and therapy (including meditation and massage ), and modifying schedules can reduce stress and burnout among multiple sectors of health care providers. Research is ongoing in this area, especially with regards to physicians, whose occupational stress and burnout is less researched compared to other health professions. Healthcare workers are at higher risk of on-the-job injury due to violence. Drunk, confused, and hostile patients and visitors are

5175-471: Is sometimes defined as mechanical damage to anatomical structure, but it has a wider connotation of physical damage with any cause, including drowning , burns , and poisoning . Such damage may result from attempted predation , territorial fights, falls, and abiotic factors. Injury prompts an inflammatory response in animals of many different phyla ; this prompts coagulation of the blood or body fluid, followed by wound healing , which may be rapid, as in

5290-630: Is used to define the term major trauma ( polytrauma ), recognized when the ISS is greater than 15. The AIS Committee of the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine designed and updates the scale. Traumatic injury is caused by an external object making forceful contact with the body, resulting in a wound . Major trauma is a severe traumatic injury that has the potential to cause disability or death . Serious traumatic injury most often occurs as

5405-526: The International Standard Classification of Occupations , support implementation of health care, treatment and referral plans usually established by medical, nursing, respiratory care, and other health professionals, and usually require formal qualifications to practice their profession. In addition, unlicensed assistive personnel assist with providing health care services as permitted. Another way to categorize healthcare practitioners

5520-750: The United States ) are considered alternative medicine practitioners. The healthcare workforce faces unique health and safety challenges and is recognized by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) as a priority industry sector in the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) to identify and provide intervention strategies regarding occupational health and safety issues. Exposure to respiratory infectious diseases like tuberculosis (caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis ) and influenza can be reduced with

5635-486: The cnidaria . Arthropods are able to repair injuries to the cuticle that forms their exoskeleton to some extent. Animals in several phyla, including annelids , arthropods, cnidaria, molluscs , nematodes , and vertebrates are able to produce antimicrobial peptides to fight off infection following an injury. Injury in humans has been studied extensively for its importance in medicine . Much of medical practice, including emergency medicine and pain management ,

5750-464: The cornea , and they have the potential to permanently damage vision. Corneal abrasions are a common injury caused by contact with foreign objects. The eye can also be injured by a foreign object remaining in the cornea. Radiation damage can be caused by exposure to excessive light, often caused by welding without eye protection or being exposed to excessive ultraviolet radiation, such as sunlight . Exposure to corrosive chemicals can permanently damage

5865-509: The female reproductive system are often a result of pregnancy and childbirth or sexual activity. They are rarely fatal, but they can produce a variety of complications, such as chronic discomfort, dyspareunia , infertility , or the formation of fistulas . Age can greatly affect the nature of genital injuries in women due to changes in hormone composition. Childbirth is the most common cause of genital injury to women of reproductive age. Many cultures practice female genital mutilation , which

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5980-442: The pelvic area include injuries to the bladder , rectum , colon , and reproductive organs . Traumatic injury to the bladder is rare and often occurs with other injuries to the abdomen and pelvis. The bladder is protected by the peritoneum , and most cases of bladder injury are concurrent with a fracture of the pelvis . Bladder trauma typically causes hematuria , or blood in the urine. Ingestion of alcohol may cause distension of

6095-407: The peripheral nerves is not healed through cellular proliferation. Following nerve injury, the nerves undergo degeneration before regenerating, and other pathways can be strengthened or reprogrammed to make up for lost function. The most common form of peripheral nerve injury is stretching, due to their inherent elasticity. Nerve injuries may also be caused by laceration or compression. Injuries to

6210-438: The skeletal muscles , ligaments , and tendons . Ligament and tendon injuries account for half of all musculoskeletal injuries. Ligament sprains and tendon strains are common injuries that do not require intervention, but the healing process is slow. Physical therapy can be used to assist reconstruction and use of injured ligaments and tendons. Torn ligaments or tendons typically require surgery. Skeletal muscles are abundant in

6325-469: The stomach , intestines , liver , pancreas , kidneys , gallbladder , and spleen . Abdominal injuries are typically caused by traffic accidents, assaults, falls, and work-related injuries, and physical examination is often unreliable in diagnosing blunt abdominal trauma. Splenic injury can cause low blood volume or blood in the peritoneal cavity . The treatment and prognosis of splenic injuries are dependent on cardiovascular stability. The gallbladder

6440-542: The Ministry was conducting research and costing analyses to determine the most appropriate attraction and retention packages for medical officers, nursing officers, pharmacists, and laboratory technicians in the country's rural areas. At the international level, the World Health Organization estimates a shortage of almost 4.3 million doctors, midwives, nurses, and support workers worldwide to meet target coverage levels of essential primary health care interventions. The shortage

6555-628: The PPE. Compliance with appropriate personal protective equipment rules may be difficult in certain situations, such as tropical environments or low-resource settings. A 2020 Cochrane systematic review found low-quality evidence that using more breathable fabric in PPE, double gloving, and active training reduce the risk of contamination but that more randomized controlled trials are needed for how best to train healthcare workers in proper PPE use. Based on recommendations from The United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for TB screening and testing

6670-471: The United Kingdom, United States, and Canada, Optometrists may also undergo further training in order to be able to perform some surgical procedures. Medical diagnosis providers are health workers responsible for the process of determining which disease or condition explains a person's symptoms and signs. It is most often referred to as diagnosis with the medical context being implicit. This usually involves

6785-421: The United States, the 2010 federal budget invested $ 330 million to increase the number of physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, and dentists practicing in areas of the country experiencing shortages of trained health professionals. The Budget expands loan repayment programs for physicians, nurses, and dentists who agree to practice in medically underserved areas. This funding will enhance

6900-478: The United States, under Michigan state laws, an individual is guilty of a felony if identified as practicing in the health profession without a valid personal license or registration. Health professionals can also be imprisoned if found guilty of practicing beyond the limits allowed by their licenses and registration. The state laws define the scope of practice for medicine, nursing, and a number of allied health professions. In Florida, practicing medicine without

7015-431: The abuser is a patient, patient's families, physician, supervisors, or nurses. A maternal and newborn health practitioner is a health care expert who deals with the care of women and their children before, during and after pregnancy and childbirth. Such health practitioners include obstetricians , physician assistants , midwives , obstetrical nurses and many others. One of the main differences between these professions

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7130-472: The age of five died from injuries, down from 766,000 in 1990. The World Health Organization (WHO) developed the International Classification of External Causes of Injury (ICECI). Under this system, injuries are classified by mechanism of injury, objects/substances producing injury, place of occurrence, activity when injured, the role of human intent, and additional modules. These codes allow

7245-481: The appropriate license is a crime classified as a third degree felony, which may give imprisonment up to five years. Practicing a health care profession without a license which results in serious bodily injury classifies as a second degree felony, providing up to 15 years' imprisonment. In the United Kingdom, healthcare professionals are regulated by the state; the UK Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) protects

7360-403: The award of a first degree or higher qualification. This category includes physicians, physician assistants, registered nurses, veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, dentists, midwives, radiographers, pharmacists, physiotherapists, optometrists, operating department practitioners and others. Allied health professionals, also referred to as "health associate professionals" in

7475-452: The bladder, increasing the risk of injury. A catheter may be used to extract blood from the bladder in the case of hemorrhaging, though injuries that break the peritoneum typically require surgery. The colon is rarely injured by blunt trauma, with most cases occurring from penetrative trauma through the abdomen. Rectal injury is less common than injury to the colon, though the rectum is more susceptible to injury following blunt force trauma to

7590-444: The body after inhalation, such as carbon monoxide. Asphyxia causes injury to the body from a lack of oxygen. It can be caused by drowning , inhalation of certain substances, strangulation , blockage of the airway , traumatic injury to the airway, apnea , and other means. The most immediate injury caused by asphyxia is hypoxia , which can in turn cause acute lung injury or acute respiratory distress syndrome as well as damage to

7705-414: The body and commonly injured when engaging in athletic activity. Muscle injuries trigger an inflammatory response to facilitate healing. Blunt trauma to the muscles can cause contusions and hematomas . Excessive tensile strength can overstretch a muscle, causing a strain. Strains may present with torn muscle fibers, hemorrhaging, or fluid in the muscles . Severe muscle injuries in which a tear extends across

7820-508: The body is strained through use, affecting the bones, muscles, ligaments, or tendons. Sports injuries are often overuse injuries such as tendinopathy . Over-extension of the ligaments and tendons can result in sprains and strains , respectively. Repetitive sedentary behaviors such as extended use of a computer or a physically repetitive occupation may cause a repetitive strain injury . Extended use of brightly lit screens may also cause eye strain . Abdominal trauma includes injuries to

7935-559: The body. They are often deeper than other burns, affecting lower tissues as electricity penetrates the skin, and the full extent of electrical burns are often obscured. They will also cause extensive destruction of tissue at the entry and exit points. Electrical injuries in the home are often minor, while high tension power cables cause serious electrical injuries in the workplace. Lightning strikes can also cause severe electrical injuries. Fatal electrical injuries are often caused by tetanic spasm inducing respiratory arrest or interference with

8050-433: The bone until it can be easily fractured. Stress fractures occur when the bone is overused or suffers under excessive or traumatic pressure, often during athletic activity. Hematomas occur immediately following a bone fracture, and the healing process often takes from six weeks to three months to complete, though continued use of the fractured bone will prevent healing. Articular cartilage damage may also affect function of

8165-472: The burning away of the skin and require surgery. Full-thickness or third-degree burns affect the entire dermis and is susceptible to infection . Fourth-degree burns reach deep tissues such as muscles and bones, causing loss of the affected area. Thermal burns are the most common type of burn, caused by contact with excessive heat, including contact with flame, contact with hot surfaces, or scalding burns caused by contact with hot water or steam. Frostbite

8280-514: The capacity of nursing schools to increase the number of nurses. It will also allow states to increase access to oral health care through dental workforce development grants . The Budget's new resources will sustain the expansion of the health care workforce funded in the Recovery Act . There were 15.7 million health care professionals in the US as of 2011. In Canada, the 2011 federal budget announced

8395-455: The care of the elderly and/or disabled to promote their health, improve their quality of life, and maintain their independence for as long as possible. They include geriatricians , occupational therapists , physician assistants , adult-gerontology nurse practitioners , clinical nurse specialists , geriatric clinical pharmacists, geriatric nurses , geriatric care managers , geriatric aides , nursing aides, caregivers and others who focus on

8510-758: The chemical contaminant, though some burn-inducing chemicals react with water to create more severe injuries. The ingestion of corrosive substances can cause chemical burns to the larynx and stomach. Toxic injury is caused by the ingestion, inhalation, injection, or absorption of a toxin . This may occur through an interaction caused by a drug or the ingestion of a poison . Different toxins may cause different types of injuries, and many will cause injury to specific organs. Toxins in gases, dusts, aerosols, and smoke can be inhaled, potentially causing respiratory failure. Respiratory toxins can be released by structural fires, industrial accidents, domestic mishaps, or through chemical weapons. Some toxicants may affect other parts of

8625-429: The chest can cause damage to the lungs, including pulmonary contusions , accumulation of blood , or a collapsed lung . The inflammation response to a lung injury can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome. Injuries to the lungs may cause symptoms ranging from shortness of breath to terminal respiratory failure . Injuries to the lungs are often fatal, and survivors often have a reduced quality of life. Injuries to

8740-409: The circulatory system. The most severe injury associated with asphyxiation is cerebral hypoxia and ischemia , in which the brain receives insufficient oxygen or blood, resulting in neurological damage or death. Specific injuries are associated with water inhalation, including alveolar collapse, atelectasis , intrapulmonary shunting , and ventilation perfusion mismatch . Simple asphyxia is caused by

8855-969: The classification and description of human injuries. Injuries may be intentional or unintentional. Intentional injuries may be acts of violence against others or self-inflicted against one's own person. Accidental injuries may be unforeseeable, or they may be caused by negligence . In order, the most common types of unintentional injuries are traffic accidents, falls, drowning , burns, and accidental poisoning. Certain types of injuries are more common in developed countries or developing countries . Traffic injuries are more likely to kill pedestrians than drivers in developing countries. Scalding burns are more common in developed countries, while open-flame injuries are more common in developing countries. As of 2021, approximately 4.4 million people are killed due to injuries each year worldwide, constituting nearly 8% of all deaths. 3.16 million of these injuries are unintentional, and 1.25 million are intentional. Traffic accidents are

8970-417: The damaged area, by producing antimicrobial chemicals, and in woody plants by regrowing over wounds. Cell injury is a variety of changes of stress that a cell suffers due to external as well as internal environmental changes. Amongst other causes, this can be due to physical, chemical, infectious, biological, nutritional or immunological factors. Cell damage can be reversible or irreversible. Depending on

9085-422: The deficit of pharmacists and pharmacy students. The reason for the shortage of pharmacy students is unknown but one can infer that it is due to the level of difficulty in the program. Results of nursing staff shortages can cause unsafe staffing levels that lead to poor patient care. Five or more incidents that occur per day in a hospital setting as a result of nurses who do not receive adequate rest or meal breaks

9200-438: The diaphragm are uncommon and rarely serious, but blunt trauma to the diaphragm can result in the formation of a hernia over time. Injuries to the diaphragm may present in many ways, including abnormal blood pressure, cardiac arrest, gastroinetestinal obstruction, and respiratory insufficiency. Injuries to the diaphragm are often associated with other injuries in the chest or abdomen, and its position between two major cavities of

9315-419: The eating of plant parts by herbivorous animals including insects and mammals , from damage to tissues by plant pathogens such as bacteria and fungi , which may gain entry after herbivore damage or in other ways, and from abiotic factors such as heat, freezing, flooding, lightning, and pollutants such as ozone. Plants respond to injury by signalling that damage has occurred, by secreting materials to seal off

9430-546: The effects of injury may strain personal relationships, such as marriages. Psychological and social variables have been found to affect the likelihood of injuries among athletes. Increased life stress can cause an increase in the likelihood of athletic injury, while social support can decrease the likelihood of injury. Social support also assists in the recovery process after athletic injuries occur. Health professional A health professional , healthcare professional , or healthcare worker (sometimes abbreviated HCW )

9545-400: The extent of injury, the cellular response may be adaptive and where possible, homeostasis is restored. Cell death occurs when the severity of the injury exceeds the cell's ability to repair itself. Cell death is relative to both the length of exposure to a harmful stimulus and the severity of the damage caused. Injury in humans Treatment of a major injury is typically carried out by

9660-449: The external ear are typically lacerations of the cartilage or the formation of a hematoma. Injuries of the middle and internal ear may include a perforated eardrum or trauma caused by extreme pressure changes. The ear is also highly sensitive to blast injury . The bones of the ear are connected to facial nerves, and ear injuries can cause paralysis of the face. Trauma to the ear can cause hearing loss . Eye injuries often take place in

9775-409: The eyes, causing blindness if not sufficiently irrigated. The eye is protected from most blunt injuries by the infraorbital margin , but in some cases blunt force may cause an eye to hemorrhage or tear. Overuse of the eyes can cause eye strain, particularly when looking at brightly lit screens for an extended period. Cardiac injuries affect the heart and blood vessels . Blunt cardiac injury in

9890-493: The following best practices should be followed when hiring and employing Health Care Personnel. When hiring Health Care Personnel, the applicant should complete the following: a TB risk assessment, a TB symptom evaluation for at least those listed on the Signs & Symptoms page, a TB test in accordance with the guidelines for Testing for TB Infection, and additional evaluation for TB disease as needed (e.g. chest x-ray for HCP with

10005-799: The foot, ankle, and lower leg may be delivered by podiatrists , chiropodists , pedorthists , foot health practitioners , podiatric medical assistants, podiatric nurse and others. A public health practitioner focuses on improving health among individuals, families and communities through the prevention and treatment of diseases and injuries, surveillance of cases, and promotion of healthy behaviors. This category includes community and preventive medicine specialists, physician assistants , public health nurses , pharmacist , clinical nurse specialists , dietitians , environmental health officers ( public health inspectors ), paramedics , epidemiologists , public health dentists , and others. In many societies, practitioners of alternative medicine have contact with

10120-524: The general working population. Elevated levels of stress are also linked to high rates of burnout , absenteeism and diagnostic errors, and reduced rates of patient satisfaction. In Canada, a national report ( Canada's Health Care Providers ) also indicated higher rates of absenteeism due to illness or disability among health care workers compared to the rest of the working population, although those working in health care reported similar levels of good health and fewer reports of being injured at work. There

10235-482: The healing process from taking place and can cause further damage to the body. A majority of wounds are contaminated with microbes from other parts of the body, and infection takes place when the immune system is unable to address this contamination. The surgical removing of devitalized tissue and the use of topical antimicrobial agents can prevent infection. Hemorrhaging of blood is a common result of injuries, and it can cause several complications. Pooling of blood under

10350-716: The health and psychological care needs of older adults. A surgical practitioner is a healthcare professional and expert who specializes in the planning and delivery of a patient's perioperative care, including during the anaesthetic, surgical and recovery stages. They may include general and specialist surgeons , physician assistants , assistant surgeons, surgical assistants, veterinary surgeons , veterinary technicians . anesthesiologists , anesthesiologist assistants , nurse anesthetists , surgical nurses , clinical officers , operating department practitioners , anaesthetic technicians , perioperative nurses , surgical technologists , and others. A rehabilitation care practitioner

10465-418: The heart are typically survivable with medical attention, though gunshot wounds to the heart are not. The right ventricle is most susceptible to injury due to its prominent location. The two primary consequences of traumatic injury to the heart are severe hemorrhaging and fluid buildup around the heart. Musculoskeletal injuries affect the skeleton and the muscular system . Soft tissue injuries affect

10580-536: The heart causing cardiac arrest . Chemical burns are caused by contact with corrosive substances such as acid or alkali . Chemical burns are rarer than most other burns, though there are many chemicals that can damage tissue. The most common chemical-related injuries are those caused by carbon monoxide , ammonia , chlorine , hydrochloric acid , and sulfuric acid . Some chemical weapons induce chemical burns, such as white phosphorus . Most chemical burns are treated with extensive application of water to remove

10695-520: The highest proportion of violent incidents, at 40%; they are followed by geriatric units (20%) and the emergency department (10%). Workplace violence can also cause psychological trauma. Health care professionals are also likely to experience sleep deprivation due to their jobs. Many health care professionals are on a shift work schedule, and therefore experience misalignment of their work schedule and their circadian rhythm . In 2007, 32% of healthcare workers were found to get fewer than 6 hours of sleep

10810-409: The human body may complicate diagnosis. Most injuries to the skin are minor and do not require specialist treatment. Lacerations of the skin are typically repaired with sutures , staples , or adhesives. The skin is susceptible to burns, and burns to the skin often cause blistering. Abrasive trauma scrapes or rubs off the skin, and severe abrasions require skin grafting to repair. Skin tears involve

10925-483: The identification of distributions of injuries in specific populations and case identification for more detailed research on causes and preventive efforts. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics developed the Occupational Injury and Illness Classification System (OIICS). Under this system injuries are classified by nature, part of body affected, source and secondary source, and event or exposure. The OIICS

11040-427: The injury. The specific symptoms and their triggers vary depending on the nature of the injury. Body image and self-esteem can also be affected by injury. Injuries that cause permanent disabilities, such as spinal cord injuries, can have severe effects on self-esteem. Disfiguring injuries can negatively affect body image, leading to a lower quality of life. Burn injuries in particular can cause dramatic changes in

11155-426: The most common form of deadly injury, causing about one-third of injury-related deaths. One-sixth are caused by suicide, and one-tenth are caused by homicide. Tens of millions of individuals require medical treatment for nonfatal injuries each year, and injuries are responsible for about 10% of all years lived with disability. Men are twice as likely to be killed through injury than women. In 2013, 367,000 children under

11270-421: The muscle can cause total loss of function. Penetrative trauma can cause laceration to muscles, which may take an extended time to heal. Unlike contusions and strains, lacerations are uncommon in sports injuries. Traumatic injury may cause various bone fractures depending on the amount of force, direction of the force, and width of the area affected. Pathologic fractures occur when a previous condition weakens

11385-433: The pelvis. Injuries to the male reproductive system are rarely fatal and typically treatable through grafts and reconstruction. The elastic nature of the scrotum makes it resistant to injury, accounting for 1% of traumatic injuries. Trauma to the scrotum may cause damage to the testis or the spermatic cord . Trauma to the penis can cause penile fracture , typically as a result of vigorous intercourse . Injuries to

11500-605: The prevalence of hearing loss by subsector within the sector. Most of the HSA subsector prevalence estimates ranged from 14% to 18%, but the Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories subsector had 31% prevalence and the Offices of All Other Miscellaneous Health Practitioners had a 24% prevalence. The Child Day Care Services subsector also had a 52% higher risk than the reference industry. Exposure to hazardous drugs , including those for chemotherapy ,

11615-650: The removal of the epidermis or dermis through friction or shearing forces, often in vulnerable populations such as the elderly. Skin injuries are potentially complicated by foreign bodies such as glass, metal, or dirt that entered the wound, and skin wounds often require cleaning. Much of medical practice is dedicated to the treatment of injuries. Traumatology is the study of traumatic injuries and injury repair. Certain injuries may be treated by specialists . Serious injuries sometimes require trauma surgery . Following serious injuries, physical therapy and occupational therapy are sometimes used for rehabilitation. Medication

11730-617: The same illnesses, disorders, conditions, and issues; however, their scope of practice often differs. The most significant difference across categories of mental health practitioners is education and training. There are many damaging effects to the health care workers. Many have had diverse negative psychological symptoms ranging from emotional trauma to very severe anxiety. Health care workers have not been treated right and because of that their mental, physical, and emotional health has been affected by it. The SAGE author's said that there were 94% of nurses that had experienced at least one PTSD after

11845-476: The second-most common cause of worker's compensation claims in the US and cause 21% of work absences due to injury. These injuries most commonly result in strains and sprains ; women, those older than 45, and those who have been working less than a year in a healthcare setting are at the highest risk. An epidemiological study published in 2018 examined the hearing status of noise-exposed health care and social assistance (HSA) workers sector to estimate and compare

11960-488: The skeletal system, and it can cause posttraumatic osteoarthritis . Unlike most bodily structures, cartilage cannot be healed once it is damaged. Injuries to the nervous system include brain injury , spinal cord injury , and nerve injury . Trauma to the brain causes traumatic brain injury (TBI), causing "long-term physical, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive consequences". Mild TBI, including concussion , often occurs during athletic activity, military service, or as

12075-411: The skin and mucous membranes from contacting infectious material. Different levels of personal protective equipment created to unique standards are used in situations where the risk of infection is different. Practices such as triple gloving and multiple respirators do not provide a higher level of protection and present a burden to the worker, who is additionally at increased risk of exposure when removing

12190-416: The skin can cause a hematoma , particularly after blunt trauma or the suture of a laceration. Hematomas are susceptible to infection and are typically treated compression, though surgery is necessary in severe cases. Excessive blood loss can cause hypovolemic shock in which cellular oxygenation can no longer take place. This can cause tachycardia , hypotension , coma, or organ failure . Fluid replacement

12305-407: The spleen, ribs, pelvis, or spinal cord. The liver is also susceptible to toxic injury, with overdose of paracetamol being a common cause of liver failure. Facial trauma may affect the eyes , nose , ears , or mouth . Nasal trauma is a common injury and the most common type of facial injury. Oral injuries are typically caused by traffic accidents or alcohol-related violence, though falls are

12420-419: The stomach. Liver injury is the most common type of organ damage in cases of abdominal trauma. The liver's size and location in the body makes injury relatively common compared to other abdominal organs, and blunt trauma injury to the liver is typically treated with nonoperative management. Liver injuries are rarely serious, though most injuries to the liver are concomitant with other injuries, particularly to

12535-556: The study showed that psychological distress and anxiety had increased more among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 outbreak. Similarly, studies have also shown that following the pandemic, at least one in five healthcare professionals report symptoms of anxiety. Specifically, the aspect of "anxiety was assessed in 12 studies, with a pooled prevalence of 23.2%" following COVID. When considering all 1,448 participants that percentage makes up about 335 people. Slips, trips, and falls are

12650-487: The traumatic experience. Others have experienced nightmares, flashbacks, and short and long term emotional reactions. The abuse is causing detrimental effects on these health care workers. Violence is causing health care workers to have a negative attitude toward work tasks and patients, and because of that they are "feeling pressured to accept the order, dispense a product, or administer a medication". Sometimes it can range from verbal to sexual to physical harassment, whether

12765-416: The urine. Due to its location in the body, pancreatic injury is relatively uncommon but more difficult to diagnose. Most injuries to the pancreas are caused by penetrative trauma, such as gunshot wounds and stab wounds. Pancreatic injuries occur in under 5% of blunt abdominal trauma cases. The severity of pancreatic injury depends primarily on the amount of harm caused to the pancreatic duct . The stomach

12880-485: The use of respirators ; this exposure is a significant occupational hazard for health care professionals. Healthcare workers are also at risk for diseases that are contracted through extended contact with a patient, including scabies . Health professionals are also at risk for contracting blood-borne diseases like hepatitis B , hepatitis C , and HIV/AIDS through needlestick injuries or contact with bodily fluids. This risk can be mitigated with vaccination when there

12995-451: The workplace which may cause adverse reproductive outcomes such as spontaneous abortion and congenital malformations . In some contexts, female health workers are also subject to gender-based violence from coworkers and patients. Many jurisdictions report shortfalls in the number of trained health human resources to meet population health needs and/or service delivery targets, especially in medically underserved areas. For example, in

13110-424: The wound, limiting loss of fluids and the entry of pathogens such as bacteria. Many organisms secrete antimicrobial chemicals which limit wound infection; in addition, animals have a variety of immune responses for the same purpose. Both plants and animals have regrowth mechanisms which may result in complete or partial healing over the injury. Cells too can repair damage to a certain degree. Injury in animals

13225-410: Was first published in 1992 and has been updated several times since. The Orchard Sports Injury and Illness Classification System (OSIICS) , previously OSICS, is used to classify injuries to enable research into specific sports injuries . The injury severity score (ISS) is a medical score to assess trauma severity. It correlates with mortality, morbidity, and hospitalization time after trauma. It

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