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Adequate time alone was spent with both Mr Bloggs and the employer's representative to
discuss more sensitive issues.
Mechanism of Injury
Mr Bloggs reported that he sustained a laceration to his scalp and a fracture to his left 9th
rib at approximately 11:00am on Monday 13/10/2003. The injury occurred whilst he was
performing normal duties. Mr Bloggs stated that he was climbing down a steel frame and
slipped, falling approximately 2 meters to the ground. He indicated that he experienced a
sharp pain immediately in his left chest wall. In addition, he reported experiencing no effect
on range of motion at the injured site following the incident. Mr Bloggs indicated that he
ceased working as a result of the injury. He reported the incident to his Supervisor, Manuel
Martinez after 1 hour (13/10/2003). Mr Bloggs indicated that he consulted a doctor, Dr
Jones soon after. At this consultation, he underwent an X-ray and was diagnosed with
laceration to scalp, fracture to the 9th left rib, injury to left wrist and left shoulder. He was
prescribed painkillers and his laceration was sutured. He was also advised to remain off
work from 13/10/2003 to 15/10/2003. Mr Bloggs reported that the incident was witnessed
by a worker from another company, Milan from Southern Cross Construction. Additional
information obtained during the assessment revealed that he does not have a history of a
previous similar injury. A tour of the workplace was completed. The re-enactment was
consistent with the explanation of his work duties.
Injury Management/Treatment Information:
Mr Bloggs stated that his symptoms have remained static since the time of the incident. He
reported that he is currently experiencing constant pain in his left lateral chest wall, left
thoracic region and pain in his left wrist when he clenches his fist.
The treatment being received includes analgesics (Panadeine) and rest and he is
constantly changing his posture. Mr Bloggs reported that no physiotherapy, or any other
form of active treatment, has commenced to date. Mr Bloggs is scheduled for a medical
review with his treating doctor, Dr Jones on 29/10/2003. A specialist review has not been
recommended by the treating doctor at this time. He believes that his treatment to date
has only provided short term relief from symptoms. According to his current medical
certificate, at the time of the assessment, Mr Bloggs was certified as totally unfit for work
from 15/10/2003 to 29/10/2003.
