A Comprehensive Review of Occupational Hazards in Nursing

Abstract

Nurses, the largest group of healthcare workers, face a wide range of occupational health hazards, including biological, chemical, physical, and psychosocial risks. Biological hazards encompass infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis non-A non-B, AIDS, and tuberculosis. Chemical hazards arise from exposure to drugs like cytotoxic agents and anesthetic gases, as well as sterilizing agents such as ethylene oxide, formaldehyde, and glutaraldehyde. Nurses also encounter physical hazards, with needlestick injuries being the most frequent. Back pain and injuries, often associated with patient handling activities, are prevalent among nurses and contribute significantly to morbidity and ill-health retirement. Assaults pose another physical risk, particularly in high-risk areas like emergency departments and psychiatric units. Exposure to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation is an additional concern. Psychosocial hazards include stress, with nurses reporting higher levels compared to other healthcare professionals. Shift work can lead to circadian rhythm disruption, causing sleep disturbances and reduced performance. Notably, nurses exhibit one of the highest suicide rates among professional groups, highlighting the mental health impact of their work. Addressing these diverse occupational health issues requires a multifaceted approach, including adherence to safety guidelines, proper training, and interventions to mitigate the psychological strain inherent in nursing.