10095 Brick Church Road • Cambridge, Ohio 43725 • 740-439-8191

"Providing Health Care for the Prevention of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses"

April 2002

Defibrillators in the Workplace. . . .

Within the workplace, sudden cardiac arrest is occurring with great frequency. Every 47 minutes someone dies at work. Approximately 15% of all workplace fatalities were caused by sudden cardiac arrest. Each year, 220,000 people in the U.S. die outside the hospital from sudden cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest is the most common cause of death from heart disease. In sudden cardiac arrest the heart suddenly stops beating normally. The electrical impulses that control the rhythm of the heart becomes so disorganized that the heart begins beating at an abnormal rapid and chaotic pace and can no longer effectively pump blood to the body or oxygen to the brain.

The only effective treatment for sudden cardiac arrest is defibrillation. Today, a new generation of AED’s (Automated External Defibrillator) make it possible for trained lay rescuers to deliver defibrillation. AED’s weigh less that 8 pounds and are about the size of a laptop computer. Because an AED is classified as a medical device, the FDA requires a physician’s order to purchases an AED. WorkPro can assist companies in the purchase of the AED and offer American Heart Heartsaver CPR/AED training for lay rescuers. For more information or to schedule training classes contact Kim at (740) 439-8714.

What is Job Stress? ? ? ?

Stress if usually described as the reaction to excessive demands, pressures and expectations. The effects of excessive stress can be both physical and behavioral.

Physical effects:

¨ Increased heart rate

¨ Headache / Dizziness

¨ Blurred vision

¨ Excessive perspiration

¨ Aching neck and shoulder muscles

¨ Clenched jaw

¨ Skin Rash

¨ Lethargic

¨ Change in eating habits

¨ Reduced sex drive

¨ Relying more on medications

Behavioral effects:

¨ Increased anxiety

¨ Confusion

¨ Inability to concentrate

¨ Mood changes

ü Depression

ü Frustration

ü Hostility

ü Helplessness

ü Impatience

ü Restlessness

Drinking more alcohol and smoking more

Preventing Stress at Work

Ø Good Management - Good Management should include openness and a sincere regard for all employees. Acknowledge employees for their hard work and achievement.

Ø The Organization of Work – The work must be acknowledged by employees to be achievable and the employees must have the knowledge and skills necessary for the tasks. It is necessary to set realistic goals with clear policies and plans

Ø A Healthy Corporate Attitude – A healthy and fit workforce is more motivated and productive. Let all employees know that the company takes fitness seriously and is committed to assisting any employee experiencing difficulties.

Ø Successful Manage Change – Commitment to continuous improvement and include employee involvement in the decision, the planning and the process of implementing change.

Ø An Appropriate Management Style – Many employees look for stimulation, satisfaction and meaningful social contact. Employers need to demonstrate a genuine interest in their workforce without inconsistency or indifference.

Welcome. . . .

We would like to welcome Christina Thorngate to WorkPro. Christina will be providing clinic support in the office.

Are you up to date with your education classes?

WorkPro offers several education classes that can be taught at your facility or at WorkPro.

The following classes need updated every 2 years.

· CPR

· First Aid in the Workplace

· AED Training

The following classes need updated once a year. .

· Bloodborne Pathogens

For more information or to schedule your training classes contact Kim at (740) 439-8714

New Services . . . .

Supervisor Training for Drug/Alcohol Awareness

The purpose is to give supervisors the educational tool needed to discern subtle behaviors that may warrant a reasonable suspicion determination. Completion of this training also fulfills the Department of Transportation requirements for supervisor training.

Class size is unlimited and is two hours in length and a manual is provided. For more information or to schedule classes contact Tina as (740) 439-8189.