There’s no need to tell you that EKG technicians play a vital role in healthcare. You know that because you perform those invaluable tasks every day of your working life. You are dedicated to providing your patients with the best care possible. The question is do you provide yourself with quality care as well? All medical providers face certain hazards. You can minimize the risks you face on the job by following these five suggestions.
Wash Your Hands After Every Patient Contact
You’ve heard about the importance of hand washing time and again, but a friendly reminder never hurts. You never know what microorganisms you might pick up from a patient simply with a touch of the hand or other small contact. Thoroughly washing your hands after interacting with any patient protects not only you, but also the patient you will be dealing with next.
Ergonomics for EKG Technicians
As an EKG technician, you spend long hours on your feet. You continually do repeated motions with your wrists. You bend over beds and twist your torso. Each of these actions puts you at risk for work related musculoskeletal disorders. There are some ways to reduce the risks, however.
Take short, frequent breaks of 30 seconds to 3 minutes. During that time do stretches, close your eyes and rest them, take deep, calming breaths to release stress from your body. Take time to adjust beds and tables to the height most comfortable for you to work. Talk to your supervisor about the possibility of staff ergonomics training to help prevent injuries. Because back injuries are one of the most common reasons healthcare personnel miss work, the investment in ergonomics training would benefit everyone concerned.
Follow the Rules
Although some of the healthcare facility’s rules may seem petty and time-consuming, remember, they were put in place for a reason. Don’t take shortcuts that might put your health or safety at risk.
Keep Yourself in Good Physical Condition
You will be less likely to injure yourself if you are in good physical condition. Do your best to maintain a healthy weight, exercise, and get plenty of sleep.
Use Caution When Entering and Leaving the Workplace
Because healthcare personnel often start work early and finish late, you need to pay particular attention when you are arriving at or leaving your workplace. Park in a well lit area. Be aware of what’s happening around you. Have your keys in your hands before you leave the building and make sure you aren’t focused on your cell phone or tablet or other electronics from presta.com until you are safe in your car. You may even want to attach a can of pepper spray to your key ring so it is at hand should you need to defend yourself.
Performing the services of an EKG technician is admirable, important work that you should be proud to do. If you don’t take care of yourself, however, you won’t be able to execute your job. Remember; keep safety first so the people who need you can depend on you for years to come.
