Are we putting ourselves in danger? Occupational hazards and job safety for orthopaedic surgeons

Authors

Robert C Ryu
Phillip H Behrens
Azeem T Malik
Jonathan D. Lester, Advocate Aurora HealthFollow
Christopher S Ahmad

Recommended Citation

Ryu RC, Behrens PH, Malik AT, Lester JD, Ahmad CS. Are we putting ourselves in danger? Occupational hazards and job safety for orthopaedic surgeons. J Orthop. 2021;24:96-101. doi: 10.1016/j.jor.2021.02.023

Affiliations

Aurora Orthopaedics

Abstract

As physicians, we strive to meet the needs of our patients. In doing so, we are often exposed to hazards that have the potential to not only compromise our health, but also our ability to deliver the best possible healthcare. Occupational hazards specific to the field of orthopaedics include infectious organisms, radiation, surgical smoke, chemicals, hazardous noise, musculoskeletal injury, and psychosocial stressors. Even though orthopaedic surgeons acknowledge the risk, most lack in-depth knowledge of the associated long-term harm associated with these hazards and ways of reducing risk of exposure. Orthopaedic surgeons should increase awareness, follow established guidelines, and integrate preventative measures to create the safest possible work environment. It is our hope that by improving our own health, we will be better equipped to address the health concerns of those we serve-our patients.

Document Type

Article

PubMed ID

33716416