As the 4th of July approaches, so does a surge in injuries that send over 45,000 Americans to hospitals and emergency rooms.
With this in mind, Nursa sought to highlight the importance of safety precautions and adequate staffing during the holiday to help manage the expected spike in ER visits. Drawing from both internal, proprietary data and external research, we compiled insights to paint a picture of the U.S.’s urgent healthcare needs as Americans celebrate the national holiday.
Key findings
- Over 50% of fireworks-related injuries in the U.S. happen in the first eight days of July.
- Emergency rooms (ERs) treat 10% more patients around the 4th of July compared to other weeks in the summer.
- Healthcare facilities are due to be understaffed by 550,000 workers on the 4th of July.
July 4: Are healthcare facilities prepared?
This table visualizes the Number of ER patients, the average percent change in ER patients for summer months, the percent change in Nursa shift demand during this time, and the forecasted potential healthcare worker shortage.
The insights highlight the urgency for preparedness in the healthcare staffing industry ahead of the 4th of July. On the 4th of July, there is an average of 45,000 ER patients across the U.S., which is a 10.60% increase compared to the average number of ER patients in the summer months (40,700).
From internal shift-posting data from healthcare facilities, the Nursa platform often shows a 2.50% decrease in shift demand in the week preceding the 4th July in both 2023 and 2024. This is compared to the average daily shift demand, which keeps healthcare facilities at full working capacity. As a result, healthcare facilities in the U.S. could be understaffed by up to 550,000 healthcare workers (2.50%) on the 4th of July, out of the 22 million employees in the industry.
What is Nursa?
Nursa is a healthcare staffing marketplace platform that connects healthcare facilities with nursing professionals for per diem shifts. Focused on improving patient outcomes and reducing staffing strain, Nursa supports a more flexible, responsive healthcare system.
What this data might show is an underestimation by healthcare facilities of the amount of staff required to deal with 4th July injuries.
It also highlights that injuries at this time are more likely to be treated in ERs rather than other healthcare facilities, such as skilled nursing or assisted living facilities. In these settings, per diem healthcare staffing might not be as necessary or tied to holiday-specific spikes in demand care.
Fireworks: The main cause for injury
The main offender of 4th of July injuries is fireworks. According to research, more than half of all fireworks-related injuries in the U.S. happen during the first eight days of July. The most common types of injuries on this holiday include burns (38% of these injuries); bruises (19%), and cuts (15%).
How can we stay safe during the 4th of July?
To help you enjoy the holiday safely and ease the burden on healthcare workers, we have outlined straightforward precautions you can take during your 4th of July celebrations.
1. Practice firework safety
Firecrackers and sparklers cause almost the same number of injuries on the 4th of July. While sparklers may seem safer, children should never use them unsupervised. When handling fireworks, ensure that only one is lit at a time; keep everyone at least 80 feet away, and have a bucket of water or a hose nearby. Most importantly, never use fireworks whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Even a small mistake can result in serious burns to the hands or face.
2. Limit alcohol consumption
The 4th is a time to relax and celebrate, but it’s important to stay alert, especially when fireworks or children are around. Make sure there’s always a designated, sober adult present who can act responsibly and step in if needed. Safety should never take a back seat to celebration.
3. Stay hydrated
July heat and long hours outside can wear you down quickly. Staying hydrated helps maintain your energy, focus, and ability to respond to situations, especially around open flames or large crowds. Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
4. Protect your skin with sunscreen and clothing
Don’t forget the sunscreen! Apply and reapply throughout the day to avoid painful burns. Consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeve clothing as it not only helps with sun protection but can also shield your skin from accidental cuts or scrapes during BBQs, fireworks, or other activities.
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