Common Workplace Injuries Among Nurses and How Workers’ Comp Can Help

Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system — caring for patients, managing emergencies, and handling demanding workloads every single day. Yet the same dedication that keeps hospitals and clinics running also exposes nurses to serious risks of injury.

From lifting patients to working long hours on their feet, nursing is one of the most physically and emotionally taxing professions. When an injury occurs, it can take a significant toll on a nurse’s ability to work and provide care. Fortunately, Nevada’s workers’ compensation system exists to help injured healthcare professionals recover the benefits they need while they heal.

1. Back and Musculoskeletal Injuries

One of the leading causes of injury for nurses is lifting or repositioning patients. Even when done correctly, repetitive movements and heavy lifting can strain the back, shoulders, and neck. Over time, these actions may lead to:

• Herniated or slipped discs
• Chronic lower back pain
• Muscle and joint injuries

Proper training and equipment like lift assists can reduce risks, but injuries still happen frequently. If a back injury prevents a nurse from performing their duties, workers’ compensation can provide wage replacement and cover medical treatment.

2. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Hospitals and clinics are fast-paced environments where spills, cluttered hallways, and slippery floors are common. A quick fall can lead to fractures, sprains, or head injuries. Nurses who suffer these types of injuries on the job are generally covered under workers’ compensation, even if the accident seems minor at first.

3. Needlestick and Sharps Injuries

Handling needles and medical instruments carries an ongoing risk of puncture wounds or exposure to infectious diseases such as hepatitis or HIV. These incidents should always be reported and treated immediately. In Nevada, nurses exposed to bloodborne pathogens during the course of employment are eligible for medical benefits and necessary testing through workers’ compensation.

4. Repetitive Stress and Overexertion Injuries

Charting, typing, and performing repetitive procedures like drawing blood or checking vitals can cause tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other repetitive strain injuries. Because these develop gradually, they can be harder to prove as work-related. However, documentation from your employer and medical provider can help establish a strong workers’ compensation claim.

5. Workplace Violence and Emotional Stress

Sadly, nurses sometimes face aggressive patients or stressful, traumatic work environments. Physical assaults or psychological trauma from workplace incidents may also qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Nevada. These cases can be complex, so it’s important to seek legal guidance early on.

How Workers’ Compensation Can Help

If you’re injured while working as a nurse in Nevada, you may be entitled to:

• Medical treatment for your injuries
• Partial wage replacement if you miss work
• Coverage for rehabilitation or therapy
• Disability benefits if your injury limits your ability to return to work

However, employers or insurers sometimes deny claims, delay benefits, or question whether an injury is truly “work-related.” That’s when having an experienced attorney can make a difference.

Protect Your Rights with Expert Workers’ Compensation Support

As a first responder, your dedication to Northern Nevada’s communities shouldn’t compromise your health or financial security. If you’ve suffered a workplace injury or illness, workers’ compensation is your right. Attorney Jay Short specializes in helping nurses and healthcare professionals in Reno, Sparks, Carson City, and beyond secure essential benefits, including medical care, wage replacement, and long-term support.

Contact the Nevada Workers’ Compensation Center through our online contact form or call 775-786-2006 today to discuss your case with a trusted Reno workers’ compensation attorney. Act now to protect your rights and focus on your recovery and continued service.