Needlestick injuries are a significant concern for employees in the healthcare field. The illnesses and infections that can result from a needlestick injury can lead to significant medical expenses and other financial damages.
New Jersey law recognizes needlestick injuries as a valid workers’ compensation issue. Workers who suffer from these types of injuries on the job are likely to qualify for compensation as part of their employment benefits.
The dangers of needlestick injuries
A needlestick injury or sharps injury occurs when a sharp object, such as a needle, punctures the skin. Needlesticks involving used needles can expose the worker to bloodborne pathogens, including HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. These infections can have long-term consequences, leading to severe health problems. In addition to physical harm, the emotional impact of a potential infection can cause stress and anxiety for the injured worker.
Workers’ compensation coverage
New Jersey workers’ compensation laws cover injuries that occur during the course of employment. Needlestick injuries fall under this category, especially in a healthcare setting. If an employee sustains a needlestick injury while performing work duties, they may receive coverage for medical treatment and wage replacement, among other benefits. This applies whether the injury results in immediate illness or the risk of a future illness due to exposure.
Reporting needlestick injuries
It is important for workers to report needlestick injuries as soon as they happen. Quick reporting ensures that the worker can receive necessary medical care and documentation of their injury. Employers should provide a safe environment and training on how to handle sharp objects, but when an injury does occur, New Jersey workers’ compensation is available to help workers recover physically and financially.
Recognizing the potential dangers of needlestick injuries can help reduce their occurrence and ensure that affected workers receive the support they need. For those who sustain such injuries, the most important thing to keep in mind is that workers’ compensation is there to help.