​We all know someone, even ourselves, who have gone to work sick. There are many reasons we do this including no paid sick time and fear of lost wages. It's not the best idea to go to work to sick but it happens. The CDC has shown that some bacteria and viruses can live on surfaces such as desks, phones and keyboards for hours after the offending co-worker is long gone. Of course. as healthcare professionals, you are exposed to even more germs in your workplace than the common office worker. And, of course. you know the dangers of exposure at work due to your training and experience, but here are a few helpful hints to protect yourself and your co-workers from spreading germs in other ways.

First of all, if you are sick, stay home! Keep your germs to yourself.

If you see that someone you work with is sick, try to stay away from them as much as possible.

Disinfect your telephone, desk, mouse and keyboard with alcohol-based wipes or other sanitizer.

If you cough or sneeze, please cover your nose and mouth every time with a tissue. Then throw it away. If you don't have a tissue use your sleeve instead of your hand.

Yearly flu vaccinations can help lower your chances of getting the flu and if you do get sick after you have the vaccine, you should have a much milder case. There are other options available too if you don't like needles.

The damp sponge in the office kitchen might be a breeding ground for disease-causing bacteria. Avoid using these type of items.

Don't eat at your desk. Studies have shown that the toilet in your office restroom has less bacteria than your desk, keyboard, mouse and phone. Clean your entire work area with alcohol-based wipes often.

Best of luck staying healthy in your workplace!

Mary Crawford, HealthCare Employment Network