I started my Orthopaedics rotation in November 2020, in that short period from then to now I have seen countless men and women lose entire fingers and toes or parts of them- primarily due to avoidable accidents. Because of this, I feel I must play my part and go back to the core reason why ‘The Layman’s Doctor’ was started- helping patients stay safe and healthy!
Here are some tips on how to keep your digits safe!
Wear appropriate shoes while riding motorbikes.
I think if I sat down and worked out the percentages of how many of our patients are because of motorbike accidents, it would be a huge chunk. Many patients have lost their toes simply because they ride their bikes in inappropriate foot wear. Avoid wearing slippers, sandals or even certain times of crepes but go for something sturdy that covers your entire foot.
Wear appropriate protective gear when doing construction/ working with machines
This has to be the NUMBER one reason, no one can tell me any different, why patients lose fingers and toes. Persons are working with saws, jackhammers, sanders and other machines without gloves, boots and other protective gear or safety measures. When I tweeted about this on twitter, someone told a story how they knew a construction worker who lost their thumb because they didn’t take safety measures. Those extra steps can play a huge role in whether or not you get amputations- because accidents do happen.
Avoid alcohol and drugs while operating machinery
This is explanatory, using mind altering substances can drastically reduce your safety and your ability to properly operate machines. So only do so with a clear head and adequate protection.
Be Careful and watch what you’re doing.
Most of these events are accidental and avoidable. So be careful when you’re closing doors, using construction tools and other heavy machinery. Avoid having your focus split to keep you and others safe.
Now, if you know someone who would benefit from hearing about protecting their fingers and toes, please share this with them! Keep safe!
Samantha C. Johnson
Samantha C. Johnson The Layman’s Doctor: Bringing Medicine Home with articles, podcasts and videos all aimed at making medicine more accessible to all.
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