Background of the Study
Healthcare workers (HCWs) play a vital role in providing medical care, yet they face numerous occupational health risks. These risks include exposure to infectious diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, workplace violence, and psychological stress (Adeyemi & Musa, 2023). Due to frequent contact with patients, HCWs are at a higher risk of contracting infections such as tuberculosis, hepatitis, and COVID-19. Additionally, prolonged working hours, heavy workload, and inadequate protective measures increase stress and burnout, leading to decreased job performance and well-being (Bello et al., 2024).
In Kano State, the healthcare sector is rapidly expanding, yet many HCWs continue to work in environments with inadequate safety protocols. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is sometimes inconsistent, and healthcare facilities often lack sufficient infrastructure to support occupational health and safety (Usman & Ibrahim, 2023). These challenges not only endanger HCWs but also compromise patient care. Despite existing policies, there is limited empirical research on the specific health risks affecting HCWs in Kano State, making it essential to assess these risks and propose effective interventions.
Statement of the Problem
Healthcare workers in Kano State encounter numerous occupational hazards, including infectious diseases, needle-stick injuries, and ergonomic issues related to patient handling. However, the implementation of occupational health policies remains inconsistent, exposing workers to significant health risks (Adebayo & Yusuf, 2024). Many HCWs work under conditions of high stress, often without adequate support systems, leading to increased cases of burnout, anxiety, and depression.
Despite global recognition of the importance of occupational health for healthcare workers, local studies on the specific risks in Kano State are limited. Without sufficient research and intervention, the health risks faced by HCWs may continue to escalate, impacting both the workforce and the quality of healthcare services. This study aims to evaluate the most pressing occupational health risks among HCWs in Kano State and recommend measures to mitigate them.
Objectives of the Study
1. To identify the most prevalent occupational health risks among healthcare workers in Kano State.
2. To assess the impact of these risks on the physical and mental well-being of healthcare workers.
3. To recommend strategies for improving occupational health and safety in healthcare facilities.
Research Questions
1. What are the most common occupational health risks among healthcare workers in Kano State?
2. How do these risks affect the health and job performance of healthcare workers?
3. What measures can be implemented to improve occupational health and safety in healthcare facilities?
Research Hypotheses
1. Healthcare workers in Kano State experience a high prevalence of occupational health risks.
2. Exposure to occupational health risks negatively impacts the well-being and job performance of healthcare workers.
3. Implementing occupational health interventions can improve workplace safety and worker well-being.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on healthcare workers in public and private hospitals in Kano State. The study may be limited by access to hospital records and willingness of HCWs to report health issues.
Definitions of Terms
• Occupational Health Risks: Hazards faced by employees in their workplace that may affect their health and safety.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety gear used by healthcare workers to minimize exposure to health hazards.
• Burnout: A state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged work-related stress.
• Needle-Stick Injury: A puncture wound typically caused by accidental pricking with a needle, posing infection risks.
• Ergonomic Hazards: Workplace conditions that may cause musculoskeletal disorders due to poor posture or repetitive movements.
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