Safety, Accident Prevention, and Emergency Procedures
What this domain covers
Scan the environment before every task: clutter, loose rugs, poor lighting, wet floors, and improper footwear are common fall hazards. If a client falls, do not move them; check for injury, stay with them, call for help, and report the fall - even if the client says they are fine.
Fire safety: know RACE (Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish/Evacuate) and PASS for extinguishers; stop, drop, and roll if clothing catches fire. Oxygen safety means no smoking, no petroleum products, no wool or static-producing fabrics, and no candles near the equipment. Prevent burns by testing bath water and keeping hot foods and appliances away from edges.
Choking: recognize the universal sign (hands at the throat), ask if they are choking, and use abdominal thrusts for a responsive adult; call emergency services if the person becomes unresponsive.
Seizures: protect the head, clear nearby objects, do not restrain, do not put anything in the mouth, and time the seizure; report it.
Know your agency's emergency plan, emergency numbers, and your scope. Aides do not apply restraints, adjust oxygen flow, or make clinical decisions.
Traps
Moving a fallen client, restraining a seizing client, leaving a client unattended in the bathroom, and ignoring a smoke alarm while finishing a task.
Rule of thumb
Safety first, then care: look at the room before you look at the task, and report every incident.