When patients arrive at the hospital, they need help. They’re walking through those doors, looking for medical professionals to get them better and on the road to recovery. Unfortunately, accidents happen even within a hospital setting, and some patients may incur additional injuries.
Being sick hinders people’s ability to remain fully aware of their surroundings. They’re weak, tired and unable to focus well. To keep patients safer, staff must take extra precautions. The following are some tips to boost their security while staying at the facility.
1. Take the Time To Talk to People
Hospitals are often overwhelmed. It’s hard to truly stop and talk with patients about their condition and limitations. Doctors and nurses go over the information, but it could be rushed or quick, without a clear discussion about the impact of medicines or side effects of surgery.
The day is busy, and it’s tempting to move on; however, try to sit, checking that patients understand their boundaries. For instance, do people want to call others to go the bathroom? They may ignore this request if they don’t understand their body’s weakness. Aid is better than a concussion or broken bone.
You may also want to talk about dietary restrictions and positioning. Some people may eat some snacks or foods brought in by others. Those with high blood pressure, diabetes or heart conditions may have special low-salt and low-sugar diets. Go over why these restrictions are necessary, and encourage these patients to stick to the hospital’s dietary guidelines.
2. Use Secure Equipment
Check on the room’s equipment regularly to ensure it’s functioning well. Are the swivel casters with lock holding on the bed? Are arm rails solid in the shower? Little things that break could mean significant consequences. Ensure that walking assistance is given or that a wheelchair is used when they want to enter the halls.
3. Use Technology
Shifts change, and patients now have new faces to meet. These new staff members may not understand everything that happened within the past few hours. Everyone must remain on the same page. Monitoring technology with access to records and notes allows oncoming doctors and nurses to update any issues or procedures quickly.
Health is, of course, the priority of a medical facility. Be sure patients understand their physical state, have secure equipment and employees use up-to-date technology. Along with surgery and treatments, staff should reflect on safety protocols.
