Sustainability and occupational health (3)

Question 1

Define sustainability

Answer 1

The ability to continue over a period of time.

Question 2

In what 3 levels can sustainability be looked at?

Answer 2

• Global sustainability
• Sustainability of the NHS
• Personal and career sustainability

Question 3

Give 6 factors of global sustainability

Answer 3

• Material inequality: world’s wealthy are getting richer whilst half of the world’s population live on less than £1.30 a day
• Population and consumption: the world’s population is growing so there is more need for space, energy, food and water
• Resource depletion: we are using up the earth’s extractable reserves of oil, gas and water
• Climate change: the world is getting warmer
• Loss of biodiversity: increased rate of animal extinction due to depletion of habitat areas
• Crisis in healthcare with ageing population and increase in obesity

Question 4

How can sustainability of the NHS be improved?

Answer 4

Prioritise environmental health:

• Sub harmful chemicals with safer alternatives
• Reduce water consumption
• Improve travel strategies
• Safely manage and dispose of pharmaceuticals

Question 5

What is the purpose of the fit note?

Answer 5

To facilitate earlier discussion about returning to work and about rehabilitation (does not affect sick pay).

Question 6

When is a fit note required?

Answer 6

If the patient has been off more than 7 consecutive days (including non working days)

Question 7

Consequences of global warming (2)

Answer 7

• Severe food shortages due to rising temperatures affecting crops
• Sea levels rising

Question 8

What action could be taken to decrease global warming

Answer 8

• Increase use of renewable energy resources
• Be more active and more plant based
• Educate on carbon literacy and numeracy
• Promote patient resilience
• Promote corporate accountability

Question 9

Give some functions of Occupational Health (OH)

Answer 9

• Help prevent work related ill health
• Advise on fitness to work and the prevention of injuries in the workplace
• Provide rehabilitation to help people return to work

Question 10

How is unemployment harmful to health?

Answer 10

• Poorer general health
• Long standing illnesses
• Poorer mental health
• Psychological distress