Occupational health for hospital workers.

Hospitals present a variety of infectious, chemical and physical hazards to their workers. Important pathogens include AIDS, hepatitis B and rubella viruses and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Ethylene oxide is probably the greatest chemical hazard, but anesthetic gases, antineoplastic drugs and skin irritants or sensitizers are significant hazards as well. Hospitals also have poor safety records. A well-organized occupational health service that includes a physician, or a nurse with medical backup, and good records saves more than it costs.