Increase in the number of orthopaedic presentations at Southland Hospital related to DIY activity around the home.
Since the lockdown began, Southland Hospital has noted at least 15 incidents where patients have presented at ED with injuries related to DIY and required surgery.
The injuries included: lacerations with nerve and tendon involvement, fractured finger bones, and nail bed injuries.
Southland Hospital staff say while records are not normally kept on DIY incidents requiring surgery, the increase since the lockdown began has been noticeable. They are asking home handy-people to take care, and use safety equipment to make sure they get through the weekend and the rest of the lockdown uninjured.
