Safety Practices Let’s goooooo…

Using Body Mechanics Why use body mechanics? Body Mechanics The way in which the body moves and maintains balance while making the most efficient use of all its parts

Muscles work best when used correctly Correct use makes lifting, pulling and pushing easier Correct use prevents unnecessary fatigue and strain saves energy. Correct body mechanics prevents injury to self.

Good Body Mechanics Rules 1. Use a broad base of support. 2. Don’t twist and lift. 3. Don’t bend for long periods of time. 4. Get help if the load is too heavy. 5. Bend from the hips and knees, not the waist. 6. Use the strongest muscles to do the job. 7. Push or pull using the weight of your body. 8.Carry objects close to the body. Good or bad?

Observing Fire Safety Fuel Oxygen Heat Three things needed to start a fire

Observing Fire Safety Major causes of fires: Carelessness with smoking and matches Misuse of electricity Defects in heating systems Spontaneous ignition Improper rubbish disposal Arson

Fire extinguishers Class A pressurized water Use on combustibles. For ordinary materials such as paper, cloth, wood, and cardboard.

Fire extinguishers 2. Class B- carbon dioxide CO2 Use flammable or combustible liquids. For gasoline, oil, paint, liquid, cooking fats, etc. –Leaves a powdery, snowlike residue that irritates the skin and eyes. –If water is used on these types of fires, it will spread.

Fire extinguishers Class C dry chemical-contains potassium bicarbonate or potassium chloride Use on electrical fires. For energized electrical equipment such as power tools, appliances, and switches. –Water is particularly dangerous because of the risk of electrical shock.

Fire extinguishers Class ABC graphite-type chemical Use on all fires. Multipurpose extinguisher.

In case of fire: Remain calm If your safety is in danger, evacuate the area and sound the alarm. If the fire is small (and you are not in danger) determine what type of fire it is and use the proper extinguisher.

In case of fire: Know your health facility’s fire safety plan Remove patients from harm Sound the alarm Close all doors and windows Shut off electrical equipment and oxygen Do NOT use the elevators

Rules for Preventing Fires Obey No Smoking signs Extinguish matches, cigarettes, and other flammable items completely Dispose of all waster materials in proper containers Before using electrical equipment, check for damaged cords or improper grounding. Avoid overloading electrical outlets. Store flammable materials in proper containers and in safe areas. If you spill a flammable liquid, wipe it up immediately. Do not allow clutter to accumulate in rooms, closets, doorways or traffic areas. Make sure nothing is blocking fire exits. When oxygen is in use, post a No-Smoking – Oxygen in Use sign. Remove all smoking materials from the room.

Restraints May be used only to protect patients from harming themselves or others Must have doctor’s order to use a restraint

Conditions that my require restraints: Irrational or confused patients Skin conditions Paralysis or limited muscular conditions

Types of restraints: Strap or safety belts Limb restraints Leather cuffs or locks Restraint jackets Restraints applied unnecessarily= false imprisonment

When using restraints Use only when other alternatives fail Allow patient to move as much as possible Reassure patient frequently Check circulation below limb restraints every 15 minutes All restraints must be removed every 2 hours and skin care given Check circ q15 min. Remove q 2 hrs Reassure patient Allow pt. to move

Complications from restraints.. Physical and mental frustration Impaired circulation Decubitus ulcers Loss of muscle tone; joint stiffness Respiratory or breathing problems