Ch 14: Safety Flashcards
aging and risks for safety
Unintentional falls are the leading type of injury in the ER, premature institutionalization, and long-term disability
Atypical symptoms _ delayed diagnosis
Altered pharmacokinetics, self-administration problems, and polypharmacy _ med safety risks
Loosing balance, less ability to tolerate activity _ falls
Less ability to sense pain and pressure _ pressure injuries, skin breakdown, burns
Periodontal disease _ aspiration
Inability to recall information _ lessened self-care treatment, interruption in care and follow-up
immediate surroundings
microenvironment
Elements in the larger world that affects us
Less easily manipulated
macroenvironment
Higher level of satisfaction from the environment cannot be achieved unless:
lower-level needs are fulfilled (Maslow’s)
things to consider in older adults environment for safety and function
Lighting
Temperature
Colors
Scents
Floor Coverings
Furniture
Sensory stimulation
Noise control
Bathroom hazards
Psychosocial factors
lighting considerations for safety and function
Light affects function, orientation, and mood/behavior
Home needs several diffuse lighting sources vs. a few bright ones
Assess environment for glare in different positions
Nightlights
Exposure to natural light helps regulate body temp., sleep cycle, and hormone production
temperature considerations for safety and function
Older adults are sensitive to lower temperatures
Recommended room temp is 75°F or higher
Temps <70°F hypothermia; temps >106°F brain damage
Assess heating and cooling system and window functionality
color considerations for safety and function
Different colors produce different emotions and feelings
Contrasting colors help define doors, stairs, and level changes in an area
Colors should be a similar pattern when not trying to draw attention to an area
Wavy patterns and diagonal lines dizziness and can worsen confusion for cognitively impaired persons
Use a simple pattern on walls
scent considerations for safety and function
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils
Memories from scents can lie dormant for years
Oils can cause psychological and physiological effects
floor covering considerations for safety and function
Carpeting
-Sound absorber
-Represents warmth, comfort, and homelike atmosphere
-Cons: static electricity and clinging, difficult wheelchair mobility, difficulty with cleaning, holds odors, pests can reside
Scattered and area rugs should be avoided
Tiled floors with wood underneath for better insulation
Avoid bold designs (can cause dizziness and confusion)
Nonglare, nonslip surface
furniture considerations for safety and function
Chairs
-Firm with arm rests and support
-Avoid low, sinking cushions
-Appropriate heights
-Upholstery should be easy to clean and fire resistant with a firm surface
Other
-Tables, bookcases, etc. should be sturdy and able to withstand weight from person leaning for support
-Small pieces of furniture should be in low-traveled areas
-People in wheelchairs need lower height
-Check drawers for ease of use
For cognitive impairment, leave furniture simple
sensory stimulation
Create an environment that is appeasing to the senses
Textured wall surfaces
Soft blankets and spreads
Differently shaped and textured objects
Murals, pictures, sculptures, and wall hangings
Plants
Coffee brewing, food cooking, perfumes, and oils
Birds to listen to
Soft music
Change wall hangings
noise control in the environment for safety and function
Sounds can create difficulties for an older person
Unwanted, disharmonic, chronic noise can be a stressor and compete against sounds the older adult wants to hear
Careful landscaping and walls can buffer noise
Acoustical ceilings, drapes, and carpeting
Turn off electronics not in use
Earphones
Use of pocket pagers/phones rather than intercoms in healthcare setting
bathroom hazards
Place small, constant light in the bathroom for nocturia
Keep bathroom floor clutter-free
Correct leaks
Be mindful of temperature of water; control water temp centrally
Color coding with water faucet
Nonslip surfaces, grab bars, shower/bath seat
Raised toilets
Avoid electrical appliances in the bathroom
fire hazards in the home
80% of fire deaths occur in home; older adults have 2.5 greater risk of dying in a fire
Stay in the kitchen while cooking
Set a timer to check pot
Use microwave to heat liquids
Safe use and disposal of matches or cigarette butts
Inspection of space heater with appropriate outlet
Proper cleaning and care of fireplaces
