diverticulosis-and-diverticulitis
Fall precautions
Wheel char Fall precautions Avoid leaning forward and tipping yourself out of the wheelchair, Move footrests out of the way to avoid tripping on them during transfer, Lock the brakes before getting out of the wheelchair, Don’t over reach for an object, Avoid sliding or positioning yourself too far forward on the seat. Keeping your wheelchair in top condition is essential to its dependability and longevity.
SN instructed patient and caregiver about how to implement fall prevention program. Check the lighting in your apartment, consider installing a grab bar, replace scatter rugs with rubber backed rugs, make sure the light near the bed is easy to reach, move the phone within arm’s reach of your bed, easy access to the things you use the most. Patient and caregiver verbalized understanding.
SN taught patient rise slowly and pause prior to ambulation to ensure proper blood pressure adjustment. Pump ankle 5-10x to reduce risk of blood pressure drop after rising from seating position. Make sure you feel your seat on the back of your legs prior to sitting. Use appropriate assistive device to ambulate. Take extra precaution while turning, around rugs/mats and avoid walking backwards.
Instructed patient to place a night-light along the route between the bedroom and bathroom.
Patient and/or caregiver instructed to clean any spilled or splashed grease on the kitchen floor immediately to prevent accidents.
Patient instructed never to stop a fall with his/her hands or elbows. Should a fall occur always maintain elbows, wrists and knees bent to prevent injuries.
Instructed patient in measures to prevent falls using a cane support during ambulation and transfers.
Caregiver instructed to place a slip-resistant rug on the floor next to the bathtub. This will ensure that the patient can get in and out of the bathtub safely without the risk of slipping or falling on the wet floor.
Patient instructed that if after a fall he or she does not feel injured it is advisable to crawl to the nearest chair or strong piece of furniture to try to get up and call for help.
Patient was instructed on measures to prevent falls at home: Keep a cordless phone and a flash light with new batteries by the bed. Walk on the grass when the sidewalks are wet or slippery.