Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

What is the leading cause of injuries in hospitals?

1. Falls

2. Sprains and strains

3. Overexertion and body reaction

4. Equipment failure

The correct answer is: Overexertion and body reaction

The leading cause of injuries in hospitals is often attributed to overexertion and body reaction. This encompasses a range of incidents where healthcare workers may experience injuries due to lifting, moving, or working with patients, as well as the physical demands placed on them while performing their duties. This category might include lifting patients without proper technique, which can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, or even incidents caused by sudden movements or reactions to unexpected situations. Understanding that overexertion and body reactions can encompass a variety of actions and reactions helps healthcare facilities focus on this area for improving safety procedures. Implementing ergonomic training, proper lifting techniques, and utilizing assistive devices can significantly mitigate risks associated with this leading cause of injury. Other factors like falls, sprains and strains, and equipment failure are also significant, but they tend to occur less frequently compared to the injuries caused by overexertion and reactions to physical demands in a dynamic healthcare setting.