Patient Safety

SUGGESTIONS FOR SAFETY IN THE HOUSE
The following suggestions are provided to improve the patient’s safely in the house and promote his/her participation in self-care:

Patient’s Welfare:

1. Give the patient a bell to seek help in case of need.
2. Program the important and emergency numbers in the telephone or keep them near the phone.
3. If the patient lives alone, arrange for someone to visit or call at least once a day.

Home Environment:

1. Install handrails or arrange for some other support in the areas where the patient walks. This support system will promote functional independence for the patient.
2. To prevent a fall, remove the door thresholds (chaukhat), carpets, and furniture, so that the patient is able to freely move in the house.
3. Always have the patient wear shoes with rubber soles in the house; this will prevent accidental slips.

Kitchen Environment:

1. Install a raised kitchen counter to facilitate easier access for the patient.
2. Use cooking utensils with long and wide handles. Serve food in a thali with guards to prevent the food from falling off.
3. The patient should not wear nylon or long sleeves while cooking. These could catch fire when near the stove.
4. Install faucets in the kitchen sink which can be turned on or off with the wrists.

Bathroom Environment:

1. Never let the patient lock the door from the inside.
2. Put a rubber mat in the bathroom and make the patient wear shoes with rubber-soles to prevent an accidental slip.
3. Tie soap with a cord to the shower or faucet to prevent it from falling while the patient is bathing.
4. Place a sturdy stool in the bathroom for comfortable seating.
5. If possible, instal a shower-fountain. This will allow the patient take a shower while standing.
6. Use a western-style toilet, or modify a chair for toilet use.