Abstract
Aim
To prospectively study all types and frequency of injuries resulting from direct contact
with cattle in an occupational setting.
Methods
Prospective evaluation of all injuries due to direct contact with cattle presenting
to the Emergency Department (ED) of a rural District General Hospital over a one year
period.
Results
Injuries related to cattle were a common reason for presentation to the ED. Some clear
patterns of injury were noted. Injuries to the upper extremity were particularly common,
especially the hand and wrist and were associated with particular activities and mechanisms.
Truncal injuries were less common but do have the potential for serious morbidity
and mortality as noted in previous studies.
Conclusions
Injuries related to direct contact with cattle are common. We noted an as yet unreported
common pattern of injury to the hands of workers kicked whilst handling cattle at
milking time. We also noted the previously recognized potential for serious injury
due to more proximal body trauma whilst working with large animals. Whilst there is
some work available pertaining to injury prevention in this industry, our study demonstrates
a need for further work to be done to minimize and prevent future injuries.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
February 28,
2011
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 Elsevier Ltd. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
