Laboratory Safety and Client Care Procedures

Vocabulary terms covering client identification, safety protocols for nursing labs, hygiene standards, and incident documentation.

Pre-safety checks

The essential actions performed before starting any laboratory task, including identifying the client, performing hand hygiene, and explaining the procedure.

Post-safety checks

The final steps of a procedure, including lowering the bed to the lowest position, ensuring the call bell is in reach, checking client comfort, performing hand hygiene, and recording/reporting.

Identification bracelet

A wristband used to correctly identify a client to prevent errors such as administering medicine to the wrong patient.

Side rails

Safety barriers on the bed; at least two should be up and within reach to ensure client safety.

Lowest position

The required height setting for the bed during post-safety checks to prevent injuries from falls.

Call bell

A communication device left within the client's reach so they can signal staff if they need anything or have an emergency.

Record

The act of writing down that a task was completed or documented in the flow sheets.

Report

The act of notifying a supervisor or nurse about an incident, change in status, or a specific focus, such as finding a bruise during AM care.

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer amount

$3$ to $5\,ml$ of product, roughly the size of a quarter, applied to the palm of the hand.

Hand washing duration

The mechanical process of cleaning hands with soap and water for at least $20$ to $30$ seconds.

Padded side rails

Specialized bed equipment used for clients experiencing a seizure to prevent them from banging against the metal rails.

Electrical cords

A common environmental hazard in facilities that can cause clients, especially those with poor stability, to fall.

Grab rails

Facility fixtures designed to provide stability and safety for clients while moving around.

Safety occurrence form

Also known as an accident form, this document is completed by the first person who finds a fallen client to ensure proper notification and documentation.

Reliable person identification

The method of identifying a client with dementia who has removed their bracelet by asking a supervisor or staff member who knows them.