Safety in Healthcare

 80% of ALL adults will experience a back injury  Healthcare workers sustain 4.5 times more overexertion injuries than any other type of worker  12% of nurses leave the profession due to back injuries (CDC) Safety Stats

 6 of the top 10 professions at greatest risk for back injuries  Nurse aide (CNA, PCT)  Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)  Registered Nurse (RN)  Health aide  Radiology Technicians  Physical Therapists Back Injuries

 The way in which the body moves and maintains balance Body Mechanics

 Maintain broad base of support  Bend from the hips & knees  Use strongest muscles (shoulders, thighs)  Keep object close to the center of gravity  Get help when needed  Avoid twisting movements Basic Rules

 Provide privacy (Draw curtains)  Knock on door, ID pt.  Explain procedures / Answer questions  Observe pt. during procedure  Before leaving, observe safety checkpoints  What are the checkpoints? Patient Safety

 Use correct body mechanics  Walk – don’t run  Report any injuries  Report unsafe situations / violations  Wash hands  Wear gloves, gown, masks when needed Personal Safety

 Follow operating instructions  Report damaged equipment (do not use)  Read MSDS when using chemicals  Never use solutions from unlabeled bottles  Read med label 3 times before giving  Never silence a beeping machine (IV pump, VS monitor) {Fix the problem} Equipment Safety

 Material Safety Data Sheet  All info about a hazardous chemical  Info includes:  Product ID  Instructions for safe use  Protection / Precautions  Procedures for spills  First aid procedures  Emergency #’s MSDS

 Employees must be trained on  Using protective equipment  Reading hazardous signs  Locating cleaning equipment  Reporting accidents / Incident reports  Locate & use MSDS Safety Training