Summary: Creating A Safe Work Environment

During the practice of an advanced practice nurse, there are many issues that can cause an impact in the patient care management that he or she has to deliver. Among these issues, the environmental health and safety may cause some sort of impact role as an advanced practice nurse. In order for the staff or any healthcare organization work productively, a safety environment must be created. Creating a safe work environment is critical to the success of the organization, and is one of the best ways to retain staff and maximize productivity. “The health of critical care nurse work environments has been shown to affect patient care outcomes as well as the job satisfaction and retention of registered nurses” (Ulrich et al. 2014, p. 64). Though it
may cost to implement safe practices and install safety equipment, the effect of not taking action can be very costly. Knowing, understanding, and following the standard guidelines of a workplace health and safety laws, previously known as Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S), will help you avoid litigation and unnecessary costs and damage to your business caused by workplace injury and illness. “The federal Occupational Safety and Health Act, also called OSHA, requires employers to provide a safe working environment for employees” (DelPo, 2015, 1). Employers and employees have mutual responsibilities to promote a safe environment to the people that they are served. Employers and employees should meet the minimum legal requirements for such areas as environmental health and safety. The employer’s most valuable asset is its people, indeed, it is essential for the workplace should be free of hazards. Patient safety is important in promoting well-being. As it is an important aspect to a patient, it is also much important for the health care staff to have a safe work environment to prevent any types of injuries that may relate to an unsafe work environment. “Employees who experience positive feelings at work will be more productive, successfully complete job tasks, and meet goals set by the organization”