LO1 - Potential Hazards Flashcards
What are all the types of hazards in care environments?
Environmental, Biological, Chemical, Psychological, Physical, Musculoskeletal, Working Conditions, Working Practices, Lack Of Security Systems
What is the definition of the term ‘hazard’?
Hazard = Something that could harm someone or cause an adverse effect on health
What environmental hazards are in a care environment?
Worn or damaged equipment that can cause a trip hazard resulting in sprains, bruises or fractures
What biological hazards are in a care environment?
Medical/Waste Products not disposed of properly can result in the spread of infections or disease
What chemical hazards are in a care environment?
Medicines - incorrect doses/wrong medication/unauthorised access to medication can lead to serious health consequences
Cleaning Materials - Incorrectly stored or used can cause physical harm
What psychological hazards are in a care environment?
Long working hours/Dealing with challenging behaviour/Abuse from service users/Bullying in the workplace can result in Stress and Fatigue
What physical hazards are in a care environment?
Excessive loud noise at work can cause ringing in the ears, deafness or other conditions.
Radiation from the use of electromagnetic rays (Eg X-Rays)
What Musculoskeletal hazards are in a care environment?
Incorrect manual handling of equipment can result in back or muscle injuries
Incorrect posture or a badly positioned work screen can result in muscular aches and pains
What working condition hazards are in a care environment?
Temperature - too hot/cold conditions can cause dehydration or other problems
Noise levels can have an effect on hearing
Travel - long distances can often cause stress and tiredness
What working practice hazards are in a care environment?
Long working hours may result in lack of concentration or tiredness leading to mistakes and accidents
Lack of supervision can result in accidents
Lack of training
Who are the people involved in care settings?
The employer - those who manage or own a care setting who employs
The employees - those who work in a care setting
Individuals who require care or support - service users
What are the 4 main impacts of hazards?
Examples for each?
Injury or harm - fractures, cuts and bruises, chemical burns
Financial loss - loss of job, loss of earning due to time off
Illness - headaches, mental health (anxiety, depression)
Poor standards of care - lack concentration, forgetfulness
What are the 2 types of abuse?
Intentional abuse - deliberate
Unintentional abuse - accidental, usually causes by careless behaviour
What are some possible effects for abusers of abuse in care settings?
Re-trained
Suspension
Criminal prosecution
Loss of professional status
What are some possible effects for individuals who have experienced abuse?
Anxiety Lack of sleep Self-harm Suicidal feeling Injury
