Abstract
This study is an investigation into the management of work-induced injuries in hospital Accident and Emergency (A&E) Departments with particular emphasis on the protection afforded by the wound dressing for patients who return to their workplace immediately after receiving treatment. Using an interview checklist to collect information from patients attending two A&E Departments, a survey was conducted to determine the type and severity of work-induced injuries and the wound dressings selected by hospital staff. The most common work-induced injuries encountered in A&E Departments and the wound management products used for the treatment of work-induced injuries are identified. The injuries encountered were mainly lacerations and contusions to the hands and fingers. The most frequently encountered wound dressings were dry gauze, Melolin and Airstrip waterproof adhesive island dressing. Environmental hazards encountered by injured employees returning to work were identified as extremes of moisture, contact with organic solvents, detergent solutions, lubricant oils, abrasive materials and radiation. A series of laboratory experiments was designed to test the penetration of three common environmental hazards, water, detergent solutions and cutting fluids at varying temperatures through the wound dressings identified. The results of the laboratory tests are presented with reference to the penetration of the three liquids through the wound dressings so to enable A&E Department staff to formulate a basis on which to select dressings, and for manufacturers to produce suitable wound dressings to protect patients with work-induced injuries. It is concluded that there is a need for the development of wound dressings which provide greater protection for employees at work. Criteria on which evaluation of new dressings may be based are proposed.