Authors: Ameera Abdulrahman Cluntun , Huda Ahmed Yuosuf , Abdulwahid Abdullah , Wael Moahmed Suleiman

Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) face a multitude of occupational hazards, leading to a high burden of work-related injuries. Many of these injuries necessitate treatment in emergency departments (EDs), yet a comprehensive understanding of their characteristics within this specific context is evolving. This article aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the types, causes, and characteristics of occupational injuries among HCWs that are treated in or reported from ED settings.

Methods: A literature search through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane was performed to select the included studies. Data on study design, setting, participant characteristics, injury types, causes of injury, risk factors, and preventive measures were extracted and synthesized primarily from studies reporting ED-treated injuries.

Results: The included studies, predominantly from the USA with two from the Middle East, varied in design and specific HCW populations [emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, hospital-based HCWs, paramedicine clinicians]. Sprains and strains, and exposures (blood/body fluid, harmful substances) were consistently high-prevalence injury types. Leading causes of injuries included body motion/overexertion, transportation incidents (especially for EMS), and exposures. For HCWs in hospital settings, needlestick injuries and slips, trips, and falls were also prominent. Workplace violence was a significant cause of injury, particularly for hospital staff. Risk factors varied by HCW type and setting but included lifting/patient handling, inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and environmental hazards.

Conclusion: Occupational injuries requiring ED visits are a significant concern across various HCW groups. Musculoskeletal injuries, exposures, and transportation-related incidents are major contributors, particularly for EMS. Workplace violence and sharps injuries are critical issues within hospital settings. Targeted interventions focusing on ergonomic support, PPE adherence, violence prevention, and enhanced safety protocols are crucial for mitigating these risks. Improved, standardized data collection, especially for ED-treated occupational injuries, is needed globally.

Keywords: Occupational Injuries, Health Care Workers, Emergency Department, Emergency Medical Services, Workplace Violence.