What is a possible hazard associated with healthcare work that can affect patient care and nurse health?

Long working hours are indeed a significant concern in the healthcare profession, but the focus of the question is on hazards that can both affect patient care and the health of nurses. The option that encompasses both aspects effectively is the potential for patient assaults and back injuries from lifting and moving patients.

Patient assaults can compromise the safety of healthcare staff, leading to psychological stress, physical injuries, and burnout, which can ultimately degrade the quality of care provided to patients. When nurses are continually concerned about their safety, their ability to focus on patient care diminishes.

Similarly, back injuries from lifting or moving patients can result in long-term health issues for healthcare workers, causing absenteeism and reducing the workforce's overall capability. This directly impacts patient care, as fewer nurses may be available to assist or provide adequate support during patient handling. In both cases, the potential for compromised safety and diminished patient care is significant, making this hazard particularly relevant within the healthcare environment.