Safety

Question 1

Define:

hazard

Answer 1

Any object, action, or event that poses a risk of harm or injury.

Hazards can be physical, mechanical, biological, or chemical.

Question 2

Which government agency regulates workplace safety?

Answer 2

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

OSHA sets safety standards and investigates workplace hazards.

Question 3

List THREE common physical hazards in healthcare settings.

Answer 3

1. Wet floors
2. Loose cords
3. Poor lighting

These hazards can lead to slips, trips, and falls.

Question 4

How can cluttered floors lead to injuries?

Answer 4

They increase the risk of tripping and falling.

Keeping walkways clear reduces fall hazards.

Question 5

Define:

a skin tear

Answer 5

A wound caused by friction or shear force that separates skin layers.

Older adults with fragile skin are more prone to skin tears.

Question 6

What is shearing?

Answer 6

A force that moves skin in one direction while underlying tissue moves in another.

Shearing can lead to skin breakdown and pressure ulcers.

Question 7

How can a caregiver prevent skin tears?

Answer 7

• Handle patients gently.
• Keep skin moisturized.
• Use protective padding.

Proper handling reduces the risk of injury.

Question 8

Which surfaces are most likely to cause slips?

Answer 8

• Wet
• Oily
• Uneven

These should be marked with warning signs and cleaned promptly.

Question 9

List THREE factors that increase fall risks.

Answer 9

1. Weakness
2. Poor vision
3. Medication side effects

Many medical conditions contribute to falls.

Environmental factors like poor lighting, clutter, and uneven surfaces also contribute to falls.

Question 10

How does poor lighting contribute to falls?

Answer 10

It makes it harder to see obstacles and hazards.

Ensuring adequate lighting reduces fall risks.

Question 11

How can rugs contribute to falls?

Answer 11

Loose or curled edges can cause tripping.

Non-slip mats or secured rugs are safer.

Question 12

Define:

fall risk assessment

Answer 12

An evaluation of a person’s likelihood of falling.

Used to implement preventive measures for at-risk individuals.

Question 13

List THREE common injuries from falls.

Answer 13

1. Fractures
2. Head trauma
3. Bruises

These injuries can have long-term consequences, especially for older adults.

Question 14

How should bed height be adjusted for fall prevention?

Answer 14

Low enough for feet to reach the floor when sitting.

This makes it easier to get in and out safely.

Question 15

What should be done before transferring a patient from bed to chair?

Answer 15

• Ensure brakes are locked.
• Use proper transfer techniques.

This prevents sudden movements that could lead to falls.

Question 16

Fill in the blank:

To prevent falls, a person should change positions ______.

Answer 16

slowly

Sudden movements can cause dizziness and imbalance.

Question 17

What is the primary cause of falls among older adults?

Answer 17

• Poor mobility.
• Balance issues.

Strength and coordination decline with age.

Falls are the most common cause of injury in older adults.

Question 18

How can hydration help prevent falls?

Answer 18

Dehydration can cause weakness and dizziness.

Encouraging fluids reduces fall risk.

Question 19

How should a caregiver assist a patient who is at risk for falls?

Answer 19

• Stay close.
• Offer support.
• Encourage slow movements.

Supervision and assistance help prevent accidents.

Question 20

List THREE strategies for preventing falls in elderly patients.

Answer 20

1. Encourage exercise.
2. Remove hazards.
3. Use assistive devices.

Strength and balance training can significantly reduce fall risk.

Assistive devices like canes and walkers provide stability and supports.

Question 21

What should be done after a patient fall occurs?

Answer 21

• Assess for injuries.
• Notify the nurse.
• Document the incident.

Prompt care reduces complications and improves patient safety.

Question 22

Why should floors remain dry in healthcare settings?

Answer 22

Wet floors increase the risk of slips and falls.

Spills should be cleaned up immediately and a warning sign placed.

Question 23

What is the purpose of non-skid footwear?

Answer 23

To improve grip and reduce slipping.

Essential for fall prevention in hospitals and nursing homes.

Proper footwear provides grip and reduces slipping risks.

Question 24

Fill in the blank:

A patient who feels dizzy when standing should _____.

Answer 24

Sit down and call for assistance.

Dizziness can lead to sudden falls.

Question 25

# True or False: Restraints should be used as the **first option** for fall prevention.

Answer 25

False ## Footnote Restraints should be a last resort and used only when necessary. Restraints must never be used for punishment or staff convenience.

Question 26

What is the primary risk of **improper restraint use**?

Answer 26

Injury or psychological distress. ## Footnote Restraints should be a last resort.

Question 27

List TWO common **complications** of restraint use.

Answer 27

1. Pressure ulcers. 1. Muscle atrophy. ## Footnote Limited movement can lead to serious health issues.

Question 28

What is the main purpose of **alternatives to restraints**?

Answer 28

* Maintain dignity. * Prevent harm. ## Footnote Alternatives promote safety without restricting movement.

Question 29

How can caregivers reduce **fall risk at night**?

Answer 29

* Using nightlights. * Clearing pathways. ## Footnote Good lighting and organization improve safety.

Question 30

What is a **mechanical** hazard?

Answer 30

A risk caused by **machinery** or **moving parts**. ## Footnote Examples include bed rails, wheelchairs, and lifts.

Question 31

How can **bed rails** be a hazard?

Answer 31

Patients **may get trapped** or try to climb over them. ## Footnote Proper use and patient assessment reduce risks.

Question 32

What should be checked before using a **mechanical lift**?

Answer 32

**Ensure**: * It is in good working order. * The patient is secure. ## Footnote Malfunctioning equipment can lead to injuries.

Question 33

What should be done before using **equipment with wheels**?

Answer 33

**Check the brakes** to ensure they work properly. ## Footnote Malfunctioning brakes can lead to accidents.

Question 34

How can caregivers prevent **wheelchair accidents**?

Answer 34

* Lock brakes before transfers. * Ensure proper positioning. ## Footnote This prevents the wheelchair from moving unexpectedly.

Question 35

# True or False: Handrails should **only be** installed in stairwells.

Answer 35

False ## Footnote They should be placed in hallways, bathrooms, and other high-risk areas.

Question 36

What are **grab bars** used for?

Answer 36

To **provide support** in bathrooms and hallways. ## Footnote They help prevent falls when getting up or moving.

Question 37

What should be checked before **using a walker**?

Answer 37

Stability and rubber tips. ## Footnote A damaged walker can increase fall risk.

Question 38

What is **entrapment** in relation to side rails.

Answer 38

When a person becomes **stuck between** the bed, mattress, or rail. ## Footnote It can cause suffocation or serious injury.

Question 39

# Fill in the blank: Patients with limited mobility should **change positions** every \_\_\_\_\_ hours.

Answer 39

two ## Footnote This prevents pressure sores/ulcers and discomfort.

Question 40

What are the **warning signs** of a pressure ulcer?

Answer 40

* Redness * Pain * Skin breakdown ## Footnote Early detection prevents serious complications.

Question 41

Which population is **most at risk** for pressure ulcers?

Answer 41

Bedridden or immobile patients. ## Footnote Regular repositioning helps prevent ulcers.

Question 42

# Define: a chemical hazard

Answer 42

Exposure to **harmful chemicals** that can cause injury or illness. ## Footnote Examples include cleaning agents, medications, and disinfectants.

Question 43

What should be done if a **chemical spill** occurs?

Answer 43

* Follow proper cleanup procedures. * Notify supervisors. ## Footnote Chemicals can cause burns, poisoning, or respiratory issues.

Question 44

What is a common **cause of poisoning** in healthcare settings?

Answer 44

**Incorrect** medication administration. ## Footnote Proper labeling and storage prevent accidents.

Question 45

How should **hazardous** materials and medications be stored?

Answer 45

In **locked cabinets** with clear labeling. ## Footnote This prevents accidental ingestion or exposure. The cabinets should be out of children's reach.

Question 46

List THREE common **fire hazards** in healthcare settings.

Answer 46

1. Frayed wires. 1. Overloaded outlets. 1. Unattended heating devices. ## Footnote Preventative measures reduce fire risks.

Question 47

What is the **first step** in responding to an electrical shock?

Answer 47

**Turn off the power source** if safe to do so. ## Footnote This prevents further injury.

Question 48

How can caregivers prevent **electrical hazards**?

Answer 48

* Inspect cords. * Avoid using damaged appliances. ## Footnote Frayed cords or overloaded outlets can cause shocks or fires. Always inspect for frayed cords or damage before using electrical devices.

Question 49

How often should a **heating pad** be checked when in use?

Answer 49

Every **5** minutes. ## Footnote Overuse can cause burns.

Question 50

List TWO ways to **prevent burns** in healthcare settings.

Answer 50

1. Test bathwater temperature. 1. Serve warm—not hot—foods. ## Footnote Burns are common in patients with reduced sensation. Secure cups with a lid should be used when serving hot beverages.

Question 51

What temperature should **hot tap water** be to prevent burns?

Answer 51

Below **115°F**. ## Footnote Higher temperatures can cause scalding injuries.

Question 52

# Define: an incident report

Answer 52

A document that **records accidents** or unusual events. ## Footnote Helps identify risks and prevent future incidents. Incidents should be reported immediately to ensures proper follow-up and documentation.

Question 53

What role does **communication** play in accident prevention?

Answer 53

**Clear instructions** and **patient awareness** help reduce risks. ## Footnote Misunderstandings can lead to preventable injuries.

Question 54

What are the **primary goals** of an incident report?

Answer 54

* Document facts. * Identify risks. * Prevent future occurrences. ## Footnote Assigning blame is not the objective.