Ensuring Safety In Care

Question 1

What are possible risks in care ?

Answer 1

Possible risks in care include ;
-abuse by other service users and /or staff
-inadequate supervision of facilities such as bathrooms
-inadequate supervision of support staff eg when moving patients
-lack of illness preventing measures such as clean toilets , hand washing facilities and safe drinking water
-infection due to lack of clean facilities and equipment
-inadequate control of harmful substances
-Lack of properly maintained first aid facilities

Question 2

How can we manage risks in care ?

Answer 2

We can manage risks in care by ;
-using risk assessments to identify possible sources of harm , assess the likelihood of them causing harm and to minimise the chance of harm
-staff training to manage risks
-clear codes of practice which are familiar to staff , including safeguarding and control of harmful substances
-appropriately qualified staff
-ensuring all staff have disclosure and barring service (DBS) clearance
-regular and evidenced checks of facilities and provision of safe drinking water
-availability of protective equipment and knowledge of infection control procedures
-procedures for reporting and recording accidents , incidents and complaints
-Provision of maintained first aid facilities

Question 3

How can we mitigate a risk of using specialist equipment such as a hoist to lift an immobile patient ?

Answer 3

Require sufficient staff are trained in use of equipment such as a hoist to be able to perform the manoeuvre

Question 4

How can we mitigate the risk of adequate supervision and support eg giving a hot drink to a frail elderly person ?

Answer 4

Ensure that the drink is not too hot , use a stable cup and supervise if necessary