The Filipino Journal: August 18-September 5 2006 issue p 6
I hurt my back at work today lifting patients (I'm a nurse). What should I do?
If you get hurt or sick because of your job you need to:
1) Get medical attention as soon as possible. Be sure to let your healthcare provider know you were injured or got ill at work. S/he should fill out a WCB Healthcare Report and fax/mail it to the WCB.
2) Tell your supervisor about any injury or illness as soon as possible after it happens. Ask your employer if they have a modified return-to-work program you could get involved in while you are recovering. Your employer has a responsibility to report workplace injuries to the WCB as soon as possible after learning of the injury (within 5 working days). Your employer must also pay you for the full day of the day you were hurt at work, not just up to the time of your injury.
3) If you miss time from work because of the injury, check with your employer whether you are covered by the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB). If so, report the accident or illness to the WCB as soon as possible (954-4100; toll-free 1-800-362-3340 between 8 am – 7 pm Monday to Friday).You will be given a claim number and contact info of an adjudicator who will handle your claim. If you have to pay for any medication or other expenses related to your injury, keep your original receipts and advise your Adjudicator. These expenses may be covered by the WCB. WCB will ensure the injury occurred as a result of your employment and confirm the extent of your injury with your HCP, determine your benefit entitlement, and contact you to let you know what the decision is on your claim and if/when you can expect to receive benefits and services. Check out www.wcb.mb.ca for more information.
4) Follow your doctor/HCP’s treatment plan and attend any follow up appointments. It is important for you to get better and go back to work as soon as you are able. WCB benefits can be reduced or stopped if you are not doing what you can to get better.
5) Stay in touch with your employer on a regular basis to ensure they are aware of your recovery progress and when you may be able to return to modified/alternate work or your regular job duties. Stay in touch with your Adjudicator to ensure s/he is aware of any relevant changes with respect to your injury, recovery, and ability to return to your regular job.
In general, if you’ve strained your back, try a hot bath or shower followed by stretching exercises. Gradually increase your walking distance. While progressing with your stretching exercises and your walking distance, gradually introduce strengthening exercises. If you are overweight, consider changing your eating and exercise habits, as excess body weight places additional strain on the spine. Most back injuries resolve quickly with time and simple treatment. A good posture while standing, sitting and sleeping helps maintain a healthy back. Stay fit, and avoid overeating. Exercise helps to prevent back injury and also speeds recovery. Gentle exercise after a back injury is essential to recovery. Keep a positive attitude. When lifting or carrying even light objects, remember to:
- place your feet shoulder-width apart for good balance
- bend your knees and do not bend over to lift
- keep the load close to the centre of your body
- lightly “tense” your trunk muscles before and during lifting
- lift gradually and smoothly, without jerking, keeping your back straight
- pivot with your feet, don’t twist your back while lifting
- coordinate your lift when working with a partner
Monday, September 18, 2006
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