Work Injuries & Workers’ Comp Rights for Maryland Nurses, CNAs, and Healthcare Workers

Sean Dobbs | Apr 15 2026 16:23

Quick Summary: Yes—nurses, CNAs, techs, and other Maryland healthcare workers can qualify for workers’ compensation. Injuries from patient lifting, repositioning, or transfers are among the most common covered claims. Slips, falls, needlesticks, and workplace violence—including trauma or assault—may also count. If you’re hurt at a Baltimore hospital, Maryland clinic, or Eastern Shore healthcare setting, you have rights to medical care and wage replacement.

At Dobbs Law, LLC, we represent Maryland healthcare workers every day—nurses, CNAs, medical assistants, respiratory therapists, behavioral health workers, OR staff, and everyone keeping our hospitals and long‑term care facilities running. Here’s what you need to know if you were injured at work and aren’t sure what to do next.

Are Nurses and Healthcare Workers Covered Under Maryland Workers’ Compensation?

Absolutely. The Maryland workers’ comp system protects employees who are injured on the job, including:

  • Nurses (RN, LPN)
  • CNA/GNAs
  • Patient care techs
  • Therapists and techs
  • Lab, imaging, and surgical staff
  • Home health and long‑term care workers

If your injury happened while performing your job duties, you may be entitled to medical treatment, wage replacement benefits, and other support. Learn more about your rights as a Maryland healthcare worker here.

Common Work Injuries in Maryland Hospitals & Healthcare Settings

1. Patient Lifting, Transferring & Repositioning Injuries

Back, neck, shoulder, and knee injuries are extremely common in Maryland hospitals and nursing homes. Even when you use proper technique, a patient who collapses or shifts their weight can cause immediate injury. These cases are routinely covered by workers’ comp.

2. Slip, Trip & Fall Accidents

Healthcare workers often deal with wet floors, cluttered hallways, and fast-paced environments. Falls can cause sprains, fractures, and long-term joint problems—injuries that qualify for workers’ compensation even if no patient was involved.

3. Workplace Violence, Trauma & Assault

Violence against healthcare workers is an increasing problem, especially in emergency, psychiatric, and long‑term care units. Maryland workers’ comp can cover physical injuries and psychological harm, including PTSD. Read more about psychological injuries here.

4. Occupational Illness & Repetitive Stress Injuries

Infections, needlestick injuries, chemical exposure, respiratory illnesses, and repetitive-use injuries (like carpal tunnel) may also qualify if connected to your job duties.

What If My Claim Is Denied?

Many healthcare workers are shocked when a valid claim gets denied. Common reasons include “pre‑existing condition,” “not work-related,” or “insufficient proof.” A denial does not mean you’re out of options—Dobbs Law, LLC fights these denials regularly, especially for lifting injuries and psychological trauma claims.

Your Rights: Medical Care, Lost Wage Benefits & More

Under Maryland workers’ compensation law, you may qualify for:

  • Medical treatment with a doctor you choose—not one forced on you
  • Wage replacement benefits (TTD) if you're unable to work (learn more here )
  • Physical therapy, pain management, and surgery if needed
  • Psychological and psychiatric care for trauma or assault
  • Permanent injury benefits if lasting symptoms remain

Why Healthcare Workers Often Need Legal Help

Nurses and CNAs frequently face uphill battles after reporting an injury—pressure to keep working, confusion about paperwork, or treatment delays. A workers’ comp lawyer can help protect your rights, make sure your medical care is approved, and fight back if your claim is denied or your benefits suddenly stop.

Injured in a Maryland Healthcare Setting? Here Are Your Next Steps.

If you were hurt while working in a Baltimore hospital, Towson clinic, long‑term care facility, or anywhere on the Eastern Shore, don’t wait. The earlier you understand your rights, the easier it is to protect your claim.

Dobbs Law, LLC helps Maryland healthcare workers get the care and wage benefits they deserve.

Contact us today for clear, practical next steps—whether you’re dealing with a new injury, a denied claim, or stopped benefits.