Occupational injuries and stressors among Canadian air medical health care professionals in rotor-wing programs

Air medical health care providers work in a unique environment that may affect occupational injury rates and patterns. Despite this knowledge, little high-quality evidence exists regarding occupational injuries specifically incurred by air medical health care professionals. We sought to characterize the epidemiology of occupational injuries experienced by Canadian rotor-wing health care providers.

A survey was sent to the 4 rotor-wing programs in Canada. All crewmembers participating directly in patient care were asked to complete the survey detailing any acute occupational injuries sustained within the previous year. A series of both open- and closed-ended questions was used to collect participant demographics and information regarding any injuries sustained.

One hundred and six (40.6%) participants completed the survey. Three hundred and thirty acute injuries were reported. Hand lacerations and leg contusions were most prevalent (31 and 24 individuals incurred these injuries, respectively). Acute back injuries were also prevalent with 25 (23.6%) participants reporting at least one back injury. Overall, an injury rate of 3.2 injuries per person per year was reported. Lifting was cited as a common factor in injury (30 cases). Most injuries required little treatment, with only 17 needing physician intervention, and only 6 required more than 1 week off work.

Injuries among Canadian air medical crews are common, but fortunately, the majority are minor. Specific injury prevention strategies may focus on stretcher design, cabin ergonomics, and extremity protective equipment.