(6) NRS 101 Safety

Introduction to Safety in Nursing

• Safety is the primary concern of nurses.

• Goals include:

  • Ensuring a safe physical environment.

  • Administering medications safely.

  • Helping patients feel secure in their surroundings.

Creating a Safe Environment

• A safe environment means freedom from injuries and preventing:

  • Falls

  • Electrical injuries

  • Fires and burns

  • Poisoning

• Important to ensure:

  • Call light/signal system is working and accessible.

Safety Precaution Strategies

• Assist patients when getting out of bed.

• Teach proper usage of emergency cords.

• Encourage non-slip slippers and handrail usage.

• Bed alarms for restless patients, keeping bed low, and maintaining clarity in the environment.

• Provide adequate lighting and promptly clean spills.

• Evaluate patients for fall risks during admission.

Falls: Assessment and Prevention

• Falls are the leading preventable injury in healthcare.

• Assess for:

  • History of falls

  • Unsteady gait

  • High-risk medications

  • Altered mental status

  • Age-related risks (70+ years)

  • Sensory deficits and incontinence.

• Special attention to patients:

  • Using gait belts when ambulating.

Safety Considerations for Different Age Groups

Infants and Children

• Importance of education for parents and proactive safety.

• Preventative measures include:

  • Protect against choking hazards.

  • Safeguard around electrical sources.

  • Use side rails in beds and cribs for infants.

Older Adults

• Changes in health increase risks:

  • Encourage using glasses and hearing aids.

  • Address slowed response time and muscle strength.

  • Monitor and ensure safe heat and cold application.

  • Be aware of multiple medications impacting reaction times.

  • Help prevent burns from hot liquids.

Restraint Use and Alternatives

• Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act prohibits routine restraints.

• Only use restraints for safety, requiring a doctor’s order.

• Document restraint justification and maintain patient dignity.

• Alternative strategies include:

  • Assessing causes of behavior issues.

  • Engaging family for support.

  • Frequent monitoring of patients.

Safety Reminder Devices

• Use devices like bed alarms to monitor patients.

• Mitt restraints can prevent patients from pulling tubes/IVs.

• Wander guards can prevent elopement risk.

Workplace Safety Hazards

• Latex sensitivities: use latex-free products.

• Common workplace hazards:

  • Electrical safety (inspecting equipment).

  • Radiation (limit exposure, wear protective devices).

  • Mercury spills: treated as chemical spills.

Biological Hazards

• Biological hazards include:

  • Lasers in surgery.

  • Bloodborne pathogens from needle sticks.

• Vaccinations are essential for healthcare workers.

Hazard Communication Act of OSHA

• Requirement to inform employees of harmful exposures and prevention measures.

Fire Safety in Healthcare

• Common causes: cooking (65% of fires).

• Fire safety protocols:

  • Use stairways, not elevators.

  • Employ RACE and PASS acronyms for fire response:

    • RACE: Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish.

    • PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.

Poison Control Measures

• Accidental poisoning is prevalent in young children.

• Know specifics on poison history in case of an emergency and call Poison Control.

Disaster Planning

• Prepare for uncontrollable events (natural disasters, terrorism).

• Distinguish between external and internal disasters.

• Know and follow facility emergency plans; conduct regular drills.

Recognizing and Responding to Terrorism

• Bioterrorism involves biological agents.

• Signs include:

  • Increased disease incidence and unusual patterns.

• Chemical agents and decontamination procedures are necessary for exposure.

Conclusion

• Safety practices are vital in healthcare to protect patients and staff from various risks.

• Constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols are essential for effective nursing care.