On-the-job injury: a costly problem.

Musculoskeletal injuries, including back disorders, rank second among work-related injuries in the United States. Back pain is an expensive problem that is difficult to treat. Studies show that workers with the greatest prevalence of back, shoulder, and knee injuries are employed in the health care industry. The PACU is an area where staff members are especially vulnerable to musculoskeletal injuries. Expenses related to on-the-job injury add significantly to the cost of health care. This article focuses on the problem and offers some suggestions for reducing the incidence of work-related injuries.