Question

Current events, How to prevent abuse among residents in a Nursing Homes or How to overcome poor patient care despite stricter oversight by staff or How to prevent falls among residents.

Answer 1

Prevention of falls in residents

• Identify residents who maybe at risk and guard against falls. Report residents who seem unsteady to the nurse.
• Know which medications cause unsteadiness or problems moving about and be watchful of residents taking these medications.
• Respond to call lights immediately. Never wait to respond.
• Remove clutter from hallways.
• If a resident begins to fall, do not try to stop it or to catch them.
• Use your body to slide them to the floor safely. You or the resident maybe injured if you try to stop the fall.
• Keep night light on in room if approved by facility and resident. Keep halls and other areas well-lit. Report any problems with lighting.
• Report loose handrails in halls or rooms immediately.
• Use non-skid mats or rugs to prevent slipping.
• If siderails are ordered, check to make sure they are raised before leaving the room.