Take Care of Yourself
Greetings, I hope this finds you well. If you made it this far, I appreciate you taking time to read the article. We face a unique set of challenges and risks in our line of work. These risks include our involvement in car wrecks, implementing varying levels of force – including deadly force – and exposure to citizens suffering from gruesome injuries and death. Even though we are trained to handle high-pressure situations and ultimately normalize what we see, you shouldn't neglect your own health and safety after these events. Don't be afraid to seek medical attention from second responders (AKA the fire department) or at a hospital. Do not let supervisors, your peers, or your ego persuade you against being assessed. If you are willing to request medical attention for a suspect, why wouldn't you request it for yourself?
Even if you feel physically fine after an incident, you should not assume you are uninjured. The adrenaline rush that often accompanies these situations can mask pain and injury. For example, strains, sprains or soft-tissue damage may not be immediately apparent but can have serious consequences if left untreated. A thorough medical evaluation at a hospital ensures that any injuries, whether visible or not, are properly diagnosed and treated, potentially preventing long-term health complications. Don't wait until you wake up the next day to seek out medical treatment. Respond to a hospital and receive a proper examination by a physician on the Department's time. If you are sore the next day, notify your supervisor, and report to UMC Quick Care on Wheeler Peak for an evaluation.
A trip to the hospital creates an official record of any injuries sustained during the incident. This documentation is important for several reasons, including workers' compensation claims. If you need to file a workers' compensation claim, having an official medical record is essential for verifying the claim and receiving the necessary benefits. You have a limited amount of time under NRS to make the claim. Although Health and Safety has improved in recent years, it's important to complete and submit an Occupational Injury form within seven days. Additionally, if the injury is serious enough that you may need surgery or eventually be rated for a disability, having a medical record from immediately after the event will help document your statement.
The psychological impact of traumatic incidents, such as being involved in an officer-involved shooting (OIS), should not be overlooked. While physical injuries are often the primary concern, the mental and emotional toll can be just as significant. This is one reason we encourage Officers involved in an OIS or other traumatic event to complete an Occupational Injury form. Early detection of issues such as acute stress disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can lead to an accurate diagnosis and improved outcomes. The weight of being involved in an OIS is heavy; you're not required to carry the load by yourself.
This profession is inherently risky, and the nature of the job often places us in harm's way. After being involved in a car wreck or use-of-force incident, it's essential that you prioritize your health and safety by seeking a medical evaluation. This step ensures that any injuries, both physical and psychological, are promptly identified and treated while also providing crucial documentation for legal, administrative, and personal protection.
As always, stay safe and back each other up.