Exam 2 module 3 part 4 Flashcards
Chapter 21 Safety - Falls
3rd leading cause of injury related deaths in older adults
falls
Risk factors of falls
History of falls, age 80+, impaired vision, dizziness/weakness, gait problems, balance problem, pain, hypotension, cognitive impairment, illness/conditions chronic, meds side effects, polypharmacy, home hazards, unfamiliar environment, alcohol useage.
KEY: clients have multiple risk factors for falls
Falls complications
Serious injury, disability, loss of independance, death
How many falls occur in the home?
more than a half
_____ of adults have falls at home
80%
____ adults 75+ have falls
three times more than 65+
MC incident reported in hospitals and long term care facilities
Falls, and falling from a bed
MC on nights, weekends, and holidays
What diagnosis do you assign to someone who could fall?
Fall Risk as a primary diagnosis
could also be fall related to self care deficit, injury risk, fear of falling, ADL alteration
NOC outcomes for falls
Balance, fall prevention behavior, personal safety behavior, safe home environment
Goal statements for falls
Remains injury free, maintain independance, home is free from fall hazards
What is key in fall safety?
- Prevention.
- It should not stop them from being activie.
- Teach patient to create the safety of their home.
- Exercise at least 30 min daily
- use assistive devices with intact rubber tips and keep the walking aid by the bed.
What factors increase the likelihood of falling?
Tiredness, sickness, rushing, emotional upset
These factors can impair balance and attention, leading to falls.
How should one approach walking and using stairs to prevent falls?
Carefully, without hurrying, and without distractions
Focused attention helps maintain balance and awareness of surroundings.
What is a recommended practice when getting out of bed or a chair?
Get out slowly and check balance before standing or walking
This is especially important for those taking blood pressure medications.
How can loads be managed to prevent falls?
Carry several small loads instead of one large load
This allows for better visibility, particularly on stairs.
What should be ensured about room lighting to prevent falls?
Rooms should be adequately lighted, with dim light at night
Turning on lights before entering a room can prevent accidents.
What is important for maintaining eye health?
Get eyes checked at least once a year and clean eyeglasses frequently
Regular eye exams can help detect issues that affect balance.
What type of footwear is recommended to prevent falls?
Shoes that fit properly and nonskid slippers
Avoid going barefoot to reduce the risk of slipping.
What should be done with loose clothing to prevent tripping?
Avoid loose, trailing clothes and keep hems at a safe length
Proper fitting clothing minimizes the risk of tripping.
What is a helpful mobility aid for older adults with stiffness or pain?
Use of a cane or walker
These aids can provide additional support and stability.
What safety measure should be taken regarding ladders?
Use a ladder or step stool, and do not stand on the top step
Standing on the top step increases the risk of falls.
What childproofing measures should be taken in the home?
Install window guards and gates at stairways
These measures protect young children from falls.
What is a key practice when supervising young children?
Never leave a child alone on a changing table
Constant supervision is essential to prevent falls.
What type of phone arrangement is recommended for older adults? What about the bed?
Keep a cordless phone in each room and by the bedside. Make bed height low. Get treatment for postural hypotension and CVD problems.
This ensures easy access to call for help if needed.
What should be done to stairs to enhance safety?
Keep stairs well lit and free of clutter. Install sturdy handtails. Slip resistant floor coverings. Fasten coverings securely. Paint the top and bottom steps white if they have vision problems or put white stripes on the front edges of steps.
Clear and well-lit stairs reduce the risk of falls.
What bathroom modifications can minimize hazards?
Use shower chairs, raised toilet seats, and install grab bars
These modifications help prevent slips and falls in the bathroom.
Fill in the blank: One should always check their _______ before standing or walking.
balance
True or False: It is safe to leave chairs near counters where young children can climb.
False
Chairs should be pushed under tables to prevent climbing.
What should you do with phone and electrical equipment cords to prevent falls?
Tape or otherwise fasten cords to the baseboard.
How should furniture be arranged to enhance safety?
Arrange furniture to provide wide walking areas.
What types of items should be kept out of walkways?
Clutter such as toys, magazines, and clothing.
What should be done with scatter or throw rugs?
Remove them or ensure they have nonskid padding.
What should be done immediately if foods or fluids are spilled on the floor?
Wipe up all foods and fluids immediately.
What products can be applied to icy surfaces to prevent slips?
Ice-melt product, salt, or sand.
What should be reviewed for patients in a healthcare facility to prevent falls?
Medications, especially psychotropic medications.
What is an important step regarding the call light for patients?
Place the call light within reach and have the patient demonstrate its use.
What should be done to orient disoriented patients?
Orient them to surroundings and label items as needed.
Where should disoriented patients be placed in a healthcare facility?
In rooms near the nurses’ station.
What items should be kept within easy reach of patients?
Water, urinal, bedpan, and tissues.
What kind of lighting should be provided for patients?
A night-light.
What should be done to floors in a healthcare facility?
Keep floors dry and free of clutter.
What should be taught to patients and their families to prevent falls?
Fall prevention strategies.
What should be placed on the chart or door for patients at risk for falls?
A warning sticker.
What devices can be used for patients with altered levels of consciousness?
Bed and chair monitoring devices.
What is the first thing to do if a fall occurs?
Do not panic.
What should you do after a fall to recover?
Stay still for a few minutes to get over the shock.
If you think you are okay after a fall, what should you do?
Slide over to a sturdy piece of furniture and push yourself up.
What should you do if you cannot move after a fall?
Try to cover yourself to keep warm until help arrives.
How to childproof the home?
- Install window guards. never leave a window wide open.
- Use gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
- Never leave a kid alone on a changing table.
- Watch young walkers to keep them from falling.
- Remove chairs near counters if kids will be likely to climb.
- Teach kids to pick up their toys.
- Children wear helmets for bicycling, skateboarding or other active sports.
What should be assessed for all inpatients upon admission?
Falls risk
It is essential to evaluate the risk of falling for all patients admitted to the hospital.
What should be identified to help mitigate falls risk?
Modifiable risk factors
Different conditions require different nursing interventions to address these factors.
How frequently should the risk assessment be repeated for patients at risk for falls?
Every 8 hours
Increased frequency of monitoring is necessary for these patients.
Name three types of medications that can increase the risk for falling.
- Opioid analgesics
- Sedatives
- Antihypertensives
These medications may impair the patient’s ability to maintain balance or respond to their environment.
What standardized tools can be used for fall risk assessment?
- Get Up and Go test
- Timed Up and Go test
- Morse Fall Scale
These tools help in evaluating a patient’s risk for falls.
Is age alone a predictor of falls?
False
While age is a factor, the items scored by the Morse Fall Scale are more common in older adults.
What is the first question in the Morse Fall Scale assessment?
Does the patient have a history of falling?
This question helps to understand the patient’s previous experiences with falls.
What does the Morse Fall Scale assess regarding a patient’s medical condition?
More than one medical diagnosis
Having multiple diagnoses can increase the risk of falls.
What type of aids are considered in the Morse Fall Scale?
Ambulatory aids
Examples include crutches or walkers that assist the patient in movement.
What does a saline lock or IV line indicate in the Morse Fall Scale?
Increased falls risk
Patients with these devices may have mobility limitations.
What aspects of a person’s gait are assessed in the Morse Fall Scale?
Normal or stooped/impaired
Gait abnormalities can indicate a higher risk for falls.
What mental status evaluations are included in the Morse Fall Scale?
Disoriented or forgetful
Cognitive impairments can significantly influence a patient’s risk of falling.
What does the nurse do after scoring the Morse Fall Scale?
Tally and record the variables on the patient’s chart
This documentation is crucial for ongoing patient care and monitoring.
What should be assessed at least once a year in older adults?
Falls
It is important to ask older adults or their caregivers about their history of falls.
What test is used if there is a history of falls in older adults?
Get Up and Go test
This test helps assess the risk of falls.
What is the first step of the Get Up and Go test?
Move from sitting to standing without using arms to help them rise.
What does the Get Up and Go test require the patient to do after standing?
Walk several paces, turn, and return to the chair.
What is the final step of the Get Up and Go test?
Sit back in the chair without using arms for support.
What should be assessed if the patient has difficulty or unsteadiness?
Sit, stand without using arms for support, close eyes for a few seconds, walk a short distance, sit in the chair without using arms for support.
What is the purpose of the Timed Up and Go test?
To evaluate the patient’s ability to get up and walk a short distance in a specified time.
What should be done if a patient is seeking care because of a fall?
Refer to a practitioner with advanced skills and experience for a Timed Up and Go and a comprehensive fall evaluation.
What is the time limit for the Timed Up and Go test?
8.5 seconds or less to walk 8 feet.
True or False: The Timed Up and Go test can be administered without prior assessment of falls.
False
A history of falls or observed difficulty with ambulation necessitates this test.
Is the patient seeking medical attention because of a fall?
Yes or No
What should be performed if the patient falls in the last year +/- feels unsteady when they walk
Perform get up and go test
What should be performed if the patient denies falls in the past year and ambulation is okay?
Ask/observe again in 1 year
What test should be performed to assess steadiness?
1st test = ‘Get Up and Go’ test
What should be done if the patient demonstrates gait or balance abnormalities?
Comprehensive falls evaluation by clinician specialist
What follow-up assessment should be performed alongside the ‘Get Up and Go’ test?
Timed Up and Go comes after if they aren’t steady
What should you do in all cases of suspected poisoning?
Call 911 or the local emergency number right away
This is crucial regardless of whether symptoms are present.
What number should you call to reach the National Poison Control Center?
(800) 222-1222
This number connects you to a local Poison Control Center.
When should you not induce vomiting?
When the ingested material is acidic or caustic to the esophagus
Inducing vomiting in such cases can cause further harm.
What does the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend regarding inducing emesis?
They no longer recommend inducing emesis with syrup of ipecac
Some practitioners may still induce vomiting despite this guideline.
Is it recommended to stock ipecac in households with young children?
No, the National Poison Control Center does not support this
Ipecac should be given only on specific recommendation from a poison center or qualified medical personnel.
Under what condition should ipecac be administered?
Only on specific recommendation from a poison center or qualified medical personnel
This ensures safety and appropriateness of treatment.
What is a key focus of nursing interventions for children regarding poisoning?
Teaching parents how to childproof the home and actions to take if someone ingests a poisonous substance
Emphasis on preparing homes for emergencies related to poisoning.
What should all homes be equipped with to handle poisoning emergencies?
A way to handle an emergency if poisoning occurs
This includes having emergency contacts readily accessible.
What is crucial for parents to do if they suspect a child has ingested a poisonous substance?
Obtain help immediately
This minimizes the time for the substance to enter the child’s system.
Which age group has the highest unintentional poisoning death rates?
Middle-aged adults
This demographic is particularly vulnerable to unintentional poisoning.
What should clients be advised to do regarding their medications?
Take only medications prescribed by a healthcare professional
This helps prevent unintentional poisoning.
True or False: It is safe to take larger or more frequent doses of medications to achieve quicker relief.
False
This can lead to unintentional overdose and poisoning.
What should clients never do with their prescription drugs?
Share or sell them
This is crucial for preventing misuse and poisoning.
What should families with older adults use to prevent accidental overdose or misuse of medications?
A medication organizer with compartments for the days/times the pills are to be taken
Filling the organizer once a week can help manage medication schedules.
Fill in the blank: To prevent poisoning, families should refer to the Home Care box, ______.
Preventing Poisoning in the Home
This section provides guidelines for safety.
What actions should be taken if poisoning occurs at home?
Follow the steps outlined in the Home Care box for actions to take
Specific guidelines are provided for responding to poisoning incidents.
What should be done if carbon monoxide intoxication is suspected?
The person should be treated with 100% humidified oxygen
A simple blood test may be done to confirm CO levels in the blood.
What is one key prevention measure for carbon monoxide poisoning?
Buy, install, and maintain a home CO detector
How should gas or wood-burning appliances be managed to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?
Ensure that they are adequately vented to the outside
What should be repaired in vehicles to prevent carbon monoxide exposure?
Rust holes or defects that could allow exhaust fumes to enter the passenger compartment
True or False: It is safe to use a gas oven to heat a house for a short time.
False
What should never be done with gasoline-powered engines to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning?
Never operate them in confined spaces or near open doors or windows
Fill in the blank: Never burn ______ inside a home, cabin, recreational vehicle, or tent.
charcoal
What is the consequence of burning charcoal inside a home?
It can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning
What is a key component of fire prevention in the home?
A warning system
This includes having working smoke alarms and changing batteries at least every 6 months.
How often should families practice their fire escape plan?
At least twice a year
Practicing the escape plan helps ensure everyone knows how to react in case of a fire.
What should be kept near the bed or chair for individuals with limited mobility?
A phone
This allows them to call for help in case of a fire.
What is crucial to have in the home for fire emergencies?
A fire extinguisher
It is important to know its location and how to use it.
How often should fire extinguishers be checked?
Regularly
They should be replaced when they become outdated.
Fill in the blank: Never leave burning ______ unattended.
candles
This is a safety measure to prevent fires.
What type of fluids should be used with charcoal grills?
Only charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills
This ensures safe usage and minimizes fire risk.
True or False: It is safe to smoke in bed when oxygen is in use.
False
Smoking in bed is dangerous, especially in homes where oxygen is present.
What should be done if there is a grease fire?
Never pour water on it
Water can cause the fire to spread.
What action should be taken for an oven fire?
Turn off the heat and keep the door closed
This prevents oxygen from fueling the fire.
What is a preventive measure regarding electrical safety?
Make sure electrical outlets have covers
This helps prevent accidental shocks or fires.
Fill in the blank: Do not place electrical cords under ______.
carpets
This can cause overheating and increase fire risk.
What should be done if there is a microwave fire?
Keep the door closed and unplug the microwave
This prevents the fire from spreading.
What should be stored in appropriate containers to prevent fire hazards?
Flammable materials
For example, oil-soaked rags should be stored in a metal container with a tight lid.
What should be checked regularly for safety in the home?
Electrical appliances for damaged cords
Frayed cords should be replaced to prevent fires.
What is a key action to take if the house is on fire?
Follow your escape plan
Crawling or staying low to the floor helps avoid smoke inhalation.
What is a key method to prevent children from tipping over pots on the stove?
Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove
This helps to keep hot pots out of reach of children.
What type of clothing should be avoided while cooking to prevent burns?
Loose-fitting clothing (e.g., wide sleeves)
Loose clothing can easily catch fire or come into contact with hot surfaces.
True or False: It is safe to warm infant formula and food in the microwave without checking the temperature.
False
Warming in the microwave can create hot spots; always check the temperature before serving.
What should parents always do before giving warmed infant formula or food to a child?
Check the temperature carefully
Many parents overlook this precaution, which is crucial for safety.
What age group is most at risk for accidental poisoning?
Children younger than the age of 5 years
Most victims of accidental poisoning are in this age group.
What should you never do with small children around household cleaning supplies or medicines?
Never leave them unattended
Children can act quickly, leading to accidental poisoning.
Why should you avoid taking medicines in front of children?
Children tend to imitate adults
This can lead them to mimic the behavior of taking medicine.
What is the correct way to refer to medicines to prevent children from thinking they are candy?
Use the correct name (e.g., ‘cough medicine’)
This helps children understand the difference between medicine and candy.
Where should medicines and household chemicals be stored?
On high shelves or in locked cabinets and drawers
Storing them out of reach helps prevent accidental poisoning.
What should you avoid doing with household chemicals and food?
Store all household chemicals away from food
This prevents contamination and accidental ingestion.
What should you do with the original containers of medicines and chemicals?
Keep them in their original containers and leave the labels on
This ensures proper identification and safety.
What type of packaging should be used for medicines and household chemicals?
Child-resistant packaging
This provides an additional layer of safety for young children.
True or False: You can assume a child is safe around substances in child-resistant containers.
False
Research shows that many toddlers and preschoolers can open child-resistant containers.
Fill in the blank: Always close the container _______ after each use.
securely
Ensures that the contents are not easily accessible to children.
What should clients do to safely dispose of medications?
Take advantage of community programs that take back medications for safe disposal
Clients can call the local trash service or a local pharmacy for options in their area.
How can clients safely dispose of outdated prescription medications?
Crush the medication or add water to dissolve it
This makes the medication easier to mix with other substances.
What should be mixed with medications to make them less desirable for pets and children?
An undesirable substance such as kitty litter or used cooking grease
This discourages accidental ingestion.
What is the recommended method for disposing of the medication mixture?
Place the mixture in an empty can or resealable bag and put it in the trash
This ensures safe disposal.
What should be done with prescription labels before disposal?
Remove all identifying information from prescription labels
This prevents identity theft and protects personal information.
What should clients do if disposal options are not available?
Certain medicines can be flushed down the sink or toilet
This is applicable when they are no longer needed.
Who provides recommendations for medicines that can be disposed of by flushing?
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
The FDA provides a list of specific medicines recommended for flushing.
What should be verified about houseplants?
Houseplants should be verified as nontoxic
Examples of toxic plants include rhododendron, philodendron, English ivy, holly, mistletoe, and lily of the valley.
What action should be taken if there are poisonous plants in the yard?
Remove them
It’s important to identify and eliminate any poisonous plants to ensure safety.
What should children be taught regarding wild plants?
Children must never eat berries, wild mushrooms, or other edible-looking plants
These plants can cause illness and even death in young children.
What warning should be given to parents about children’s behavior towards windowsills?
Keep children from chewing on windowsills
It’s important to clean up flakes of paint to prevent ingestion.
What advocacy should be made regarding lead-based paint?
Advocate for clients to have lead-based paint replaced
Lead-based paint can still be found in older homes and poses health risks.
Why should young children be monitored around dirt and furniture?
Young children often put dirt in their mouths and chew on furniture and windowsills
This behavior is especially common when they are teething.
Fill in the blank: It is crucial to teach children that they must never eat _______ or other edible-looking plants.
berries, wild mushrooms
What should you do when removing coverings from microwaved food?
Remove coverings carefully
This prevents burns or spills.
What should you avoid doing while holding an infant?
Do not smoke, use matches, or drink hot liquids
These actions can pose safety risks to the infant.
How should burning cigarettes be handled?
Do not leave burning cigarettes unattended
This helps prevent fire hazards.
What precaution should be taken when checking bath water for children and older adults?
Always check bath water temperature
This helps prevent scalds.
What should be set low enough to prevent scalds?
Water heater temperature
Setting it low reduces the risk of burns.
What safety measures should be taken around radiators and fireplaces?
Place guardrails in front of them
This prevents accidental contact and injuries.
What protective measures should be taken when outside?
Wear protective clothing and sunscreen
This protects against sunburn and skin damage.
What is an essential intervention to prevent unintentional firearm injuries involving children?
Education
Education efforts are primarily aimed at parents to promote gun safety.
What organizations have mounted efforts to educate parents about gun safety?
American Academy of Pediatrics and other groups
These organizations focus on informing parents to make smart choices regarding gun safety.
What is the recommended way to store firearms when not in use?
Unloaded and in a secure, locked container
Ammunition should be stored in a different location from the firearm.
Name one of the rules for safe gun handling.
Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction
This rule ensures that even if the gun were to go off, it would not cause injury or damage.
What should you never do until you are ready to shoot?
Put your finger on the trigger
This rule emphasizes the importance of trigger discipline.
What should always be done before cleaning a gun?
Make absolutely sure that it is unloaded
If unsure how to inspect the chamber, seek help.
What should parents teach children about encountering firearms?
Safe behavior around firearms
Children should know what to do if they see a gun in various places.
List the four steps children should follow if they see a gun.
- Stop
- Do not touch it
- Leave the area
- Tell an adult
These steps are crucial for ensuring children’s safety around firearms.
True or False: It is only necessary to teach children safe behavior around firearms if they have guns in their home.
False
Children may encounter guns in other locations, making it important for all parents to educate them.
What is the universal sign for choking?
Grasping the neck between the thumb and index finger or clutching the neck with both hands
This sign should be recognized and taught to children.
What should be inspected to prevent suffocation?
Toys for small, removable parts
Regular inspection can help avoid choking hazards.
What should not be attached to pacifiers or rattles?
Ribbons or strings
This prevents potential choking hazards.
What type of clothing should be avoided for infants to prevent suffocation?
Sweatshirts or jackets with necktie strings
Such clothing can pose a strangulation risk.
When should mobiles be removed from a crib?
Once the baby begins to push up on hands and knees or by age 5 months
Mobiles should be positioned well above the crib.
What should be kept out of a child’s reach to prevent suffocation?
Window blind cords
These cords can pose strangulation risks.
Where should plastic bags be stored?
Away from young children in a secure place
This helps prevent suffocation hazards.
What are the federal regulations regarding crib slats?
Less than 2 3/8 in. (6 cm) apart
Compliance ensures child safety in the crib.
What must fit snugly in a crib according to safety regulations?
The mattress
A snug fit helps prevent entrapment.