Question

Discuss and define each of the three bursing hazards (physical, chemical, and biological), give a specific example for each hazard how nusres may potentially be exposed to that hazard

please give a reference to the questions!

Give an examples in which the patient may be exposed to these hazard, and explain how these potential exposures can be reduced or eliminated.

Answer 1

The healthcare facilities including the laboratories are the sources of various physical hazards irrespective of their importance in protecting the public health. These are particularly dangerous for those who are not aware of these hazards. So, specific safety precautions are necessary to prevent the hazards.

The six types of safety hazards include,

1. Biological hazards – For example, the infectious microbes such as viruses and bacteria
2. Physical hazards – Examples include, wet floors, and lifting heavy weights
3. Sharps – Examples include, needles, lancets, and broken glass
4. Chemical – For example, reagents, and preservatives
5. Radioactive or x-ray – For example, the equipment that emits radiation
6. Fire or explosive – For example, open flames, and chemicals

The five safety precautions that can prevent the risk of physical hazards in the laboratory are,

1. Maintaining hygiene
2. Using the personal protective equipment as required
3. Avoiding the direct hand or eye contact in the work region
4. Avoiding anything to get hang loose as it is likely to contaminate the other materials
5. Protecting oneself from spills, slips, and objects that are likely to fall upon

Chemical hazards can occur during the manufacturing, transporting, storage, disposal or usage of various chemicals. Hazardous materials can be identified with clues such as color-coded placards on abandoned drums, unusual and strong odors, fumes, a leaking cargo trailer, etc.

However, not all chemicals have taste and smell. For example, carbon monoxide is a tasteless and odorless gas that cause cyanosis and death. If any hazardous materials are identified, one should immediately inform the emergency services (9-1-1).

Bleeding is one of the examples of biological hazards that is commonly observed in the healthcare facilities. The following steps must be considered in case of bleeding wound:

• Apply pressure on the bleeding area
• Elevate the limb (avoid this step if it is fractured)
• Immediately report to the employer and obtain medical attention
• Maintain the pressure until the help arrives