Safety, Emergency Response, and Infection Control
Everyday safety
Most injuries on the unit are preventable. Keep the call light within reach, the bed in the lowest position with wheels locked, and the floor clear. Know which residents are fall risks, wander, or have oxygen, and follow the plan for each. Never apply a restraint without an order, never tie one to a side rail, and check circulation, release, and reposition at least every 15 minutes if one is in use. Oxygen safety means no smoking, no petroleum products, and no kinked tubing.
Emergencies
For fire, use RACE: Rescue anyone in immediate danger, pull the Alarm, Contain the fire by closing doors, then Extinguish or Evacuate. For a conscious choking adult, give abdominal thrusts and stay with the resident. For a seizure, protect the head, move hazards away, do not restrain and do not put anything in the mouth, time it, and report. For a stroke, remember FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) and get the nurse immediately. If a resident falls, do not move them; check for injury and call for help.
Infection control
Hand hygiene is the single most important action. Use soap and water when hands are visibly soiled, after using the restroom, and with C. difficile; otherwise an alcohol-based rub is acceptable. Wear gloves for body fluids but never wear them from one resident to another, and never let gloves replace handwashing. Don PPE in the order gown, mask, goggles, gloves; remove gloves first. Do not share equipment between residents without cleaning, do not shake linens, and dispose of sharps in the proper container.
Rule of thumb
If it involves body fluid or a resident contact, clean your hands before and after, every time, gloves or not.