Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Safety in the Homes

An accident is an unplanned and unforeseen event or circumstance, some are caused by nature but unfortunately most accidents we can prevent.

A-aware of potential unsafe conditions and always practicing your safety skills
C-correct the condition or notify the appropriate person
T-take precautions to avoid future problems

One precaution we can take in the homes or other living facilities is to check all the medical or household equipment in use each day.

  • surface- free from cracks, rough or sharp edges or chips
  • electrical cords- intact, no frayed or loose ends or wires
  • electrical plugs- intact, not loose or damaged
  • bolts or screws- tightened properly, not loose

    General rules for safety in the homes

  • provide adequate lighting especially at steps, stairs and uneven walking surfaces
  • maintain a clutter free home
  • remove frayed rugs and scatter area rugs if possible
  • have major gas, oil or electrical appliances checked by a qualified person to ensure they are in proper working order
  • clean up spills immediately
  • store gasoline and kerosene in approved containers
  • keep windows in working order and screens in place
  • maintain clean but not highly polished floors, steps, and stairs
  • install smoke detectors on the ceiling of each level of the home. Test each month and replace the batteries every six months
  • set hot water heaters at 120 degrees or lower to reduce burns, due to scalding

    In the bedroom

  • remove clutter from the floor and bedside
  • arrange furniture to allow for free movement around the room
  • provide a source of light at or near the bedside
  • keep side rails on the bed, if necessary
  • position hospital bed ( if needed ) at the lowest possible height when care is not being given
  • remove obstacles in the traffic pattern of the room

    In the Bathroom

  • hot and cold water faucets marked correctly
  • if turning on the water or shower requires special directions, print them out and tape in a plastic cover to the shower wall area
  • grab bars in the shower, toilet, bathtub areas if needed
  • a night light in place
  • non skid pads in the shower or tub
  • soap in a dish not on the tub floor
  • keep all electrical appliances away from the water
  • make sure the toilet seat is properly attached ( not loose )

    In the Kitchen

  • major kitchen appliances are in working order
  • fire extinguisher is in working order and located near the stove
  • small electrical appliances are unplugged when not is use
  • detergents, cleaning liquids, bleach, etc., are stored separately from food, in clearly marker containers. KEEP OUT OF CHILDREN REACH
  • items most frequently used are stored within easy reach
  • pan handles are turned inward and out of children's reach when cooking
  • your long sleeves should be rolled back or fastened with pins or elastic bands when cooking
  • knives and other sharpened are stored properly
  • stove and microwave ovens is never left unattended while cooking
  • flammable or combustible items are stored away from the stove or other sources of heat or sparks ( aerosol, gasoline, kerosene )

    With confused clients

  • have recent, clear photos of client and family available
  • have client wear an ID bracelet
  • know where the client is at all times
  • closely supervise the client in potentially dangerous situations ( smoking, shaving, cooking, bathing, etc. )
  • attach bells to ring when an outside door is opened
  • lock doors to basement, attics, and all stairways
  • label doors to other rooms using words and pictured signs
  • put sharp objects, weapons, chemicals, and other harmful materials in a safe place, maybe even locked