Visual: can they see what’s in front of them while walking? Can they see that they are taking the appropriate medication? Hearing: can they hear someone speaking to them or yelling at them? Can they hear if they are in danger? Sensory/perceptual: can they feel if they are too hot or cold?

Various factors can influence the likelihood that a  patient will get injured Age and developmental stage: elderly as well patients that may physically be older, but mentally younger Lifestyle: do they use seat belts? Do they drive impaired (alcohol, texting/using their smartphone?) Do they use drugs recreationally? Do they own guns? Mental status:  confusion, meds […]

Many facilities have various protocols on how to deal with various safety issues Falls Armed intruder Large patient influx/at capacity Infant abduction Weather issues Acts of terrorism Unsafe/violent patients or visitors Know what you need to do as a nurse for your personal safety and the safety of your patients Participate in drills Know how […]

Important to ask about all allergies, not just medication allergies Some medications may have ingredients from different foods in their coating or capsules Must ask about allergies to IV dyes or contrast Ask about all food, environmental, and medication allergies Ensure this is charted appropriately Make sure to chart what happens when the patient has […]

Examples of necessary referrals include therapy services (physical, occupational, speech), wound care, nutritional services, and so forth Recognize the need for referrals and obtain necessary orders Identify community resources for the client with health care team (Meals on Wheels, respite services, public transportation, various programs and shelters) Identify which documents to include for referrals (actual […]

Performance Improvement (Quality Improvement)   Define performance improvement/quality assurance activities Participate in performance improvement/quality improvement process* Report identified client care issues/problems to appropriate personnel (e.g., nurse manager, risk manager) Utilize research and other references for performance improvement actions Evaluate … Continued

Participate in performance improvement/quality improvement process Utilize research and other references for performance improvement actions Report identified patient care issues and problems (utilize chain of command) Evaluate the impact of performance improvement measures on patient care and resource utilization

Call lights Adaptive call lights can be used for patients with poor dexterity Phones, or other technology

Important to ask about all allergies, not just medication allergies Some medications may have ingredients from different foods in their coating or capsules Must ask about allergies to IV dyes or contrast Ask about all food, environmental, and medication allergies Ensure this is charted appropriately Make sure to chart what happens when the patient has […]

Examples of necessary referrals include therapy services (physical, occupational, speech), wound care, nutritional services, and so forth Recognize the need for referrals and obtain necessary orders Identify community resources for the client with health care team (Meals on Wheels, respite services, public transportation, various programs and shelters) Identify which documents to include for referrals (actual […]