Page 31 - Home Health Marketing

 Be aware of where your pets are at all times.
 Do not walk over or around cords or wires, i.e., cords from lamps, extension
cords or telephone cords. Coil or tape cords and wires next to the wall so
you can’t trip over them. Have an electrician add more outlets if needed.
 Keep items used often within easy reach (about waist high) in cabinets.
 Use a steady step stool with a hand bar. Never use a chair as a step stool.
 Improve the lighting in your home. Replace bulbs as needed. Lamp shades
or frosted bulbs can reduce glare.
 Make sure stairways, halls, entrances and outside steps are well lit. Have
a light switch at the top and bottom of the stairs.
 Place a lamp, flashlight and extra batteries within easy reach of your bed.
 Place night lights in bathrooms, halls and passageways so you can see
where you’re walking at night.
 Make sure the carpet is firmly attached to every step. If not, remove the
carpet and attach non-slip rubber treads on the stairs. Paint a contrasting
color on the top front edge of all steps so you can see the stairs better.
 Fix loose handrails or put in new ones. Make sure handrails are on both
sides of the stairs and are as long as the stairs. Fix loose or uneven steps.
 Install grab bars next to your toilet and in the tub or shower.
 Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors.
 Use an elevated toilet seat and/or shower stool, if needed.
 Exercise regularly. Exercise makes you stronger and improves your balance
and coordination. Talk to your doctor about what exercise is right for you.
 Have your nurse, doctor or pharmacist look at all the medicines you take, even
over-the-counter medicines. Some medicines can make you sleepy or dizzy.
 Have your vision checked at least once a year by an eye doctor. Poor vision
can increase your risk of falling.
 Get up slowly after you sit or lie down.
 Use a cane or assistive device for extra stability, if needed.
 Consider wearing an alarm device that will bring help in case you fall and
can’t get up.

FIRE SAFETY/BURN PRECAUTIONS

 Make sure the patient has easy access to a telephone, and post the fire
department number on every telephone. All family members and
caregivers should be familiar with emergency 911 procedures.
 Notify the fire department if a disabled person is in the home.
 Do not smoke (including e-cigarettes) in bed or where oxygen is being used.
Never leave burning cigarettes unattended. Do not empty smoldering ashes in a
trash can. Keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains.
 Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home, including the
basement. Place smoke detectors near rooms where people sleep. Test
smoke detectors every month to make sure they are working properly.
 Install new smoke detector batteries twice a year.
 Fire extinguishers should be checked frequently for stability.

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