Caring for patients in their homes can offer many benefits; yet, such care also presents safety risks. In particular, the unique nature of home care settings can make both you and patients more vulnerable to slips, trips and falls. With this in mind, it’s crucial to know how to mitigate these risks and prevent related injuries. Read on for tips to avoid slips, trips and falls in patients’ homes.
Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls
Follow these best practices to limit the likelihood of slips, trips and falls in home care settings:
- Talk to the patient. Certain factors can heighten an individual’s risk of experiencing slips, trips and falls (e.g., health conditions, medications and prior falls). Review these factors with the patient to discuss their specific exposures and determine effective mitigation strategies.
- Promote healthy habits. Upholding a healthy lifestyle can help you and the patient maintain strength and coordination, reducing the risk of slips, trips and falls. As such, it’s best for you and the patient to exercise daily, eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Based on the patient’s health concerns, their exercise regimen may center solely around low-impact activities (e.g., walking or water aerobics).
- Identify and minimize key hazards. Assess the patient’s home for possible slip, trip and fall hazards and address these issues as quickly as possible. Common hazards may include cluttered or obstructed walkways; narrow pathways that don’t permit the use of walkers or other mobility equipment; poorly lit areas; damaged stairs or steps; loose flooring, rugs or carpeting; stray electrical cords; and spilled food or liquids. Be mindful of seasonal hazards, such as entryways getting slippery from rain or snow.
- Leverage assistive devices and materials. If the patient struggles with mobility, use assistive devices and materials to help them move more easily throughout their home and avoid slips, trips and falls. These items could include handrails, armrests, nonslip mats and stair treads, elevated toilet seats, and grab bars for showers and bathtubs. Inspect such items regularly and keep them in good condition.
- Ensure proper footwear. Make sure both you and the patient select supportive footwear with adequate traction (e.g., nonslip tennis shoes).
- Don’t rush. Remain alert of your surroundings and conduct tasks at a safe pace. This is especially important when entering and exiting the patient’s home, moving or walking with the patient, and carrying materials and supplies.
Contact INSURICA for more healthcare resources.
The content of this News Brief is of general interest and is not intended to apply to specific circumstances. It should not be regarded as legal advice and not be relied upon as such. In relation to any particular problem which they may have, readers are advised to seek specific advice. © 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.
About the Author
Share This Story
Related Blogs
Flexible Compensation: A Necessary Evolution
In today’s fast-evolving job market, flexible compensation is redefining how companies attract and retain talent. Traditional pay structures, once seen as stable and predictable, are now losing appeal, particularly among younger professionals who prioritize personalized benefits over rigid salary scales. While flexible compensation models have gradually emerged since the early 2000s, the post-pandemic work era has rapidly accelerated their adoption—driven by shifting workforce expectations, economic volatility, and the rise of remote work and gig employment.
Balancing Employee Wellbeing and Financial Pressures
In today’s economic climate, businesses are facing rising costs and inflationary pressures, leading to a fundamental reassessment of employee benefits programs. While mental health and wellbeing initiatives remain a priority for employers, there is a growing demand for measurable impact and cost-efficient solutions rather than superficial perks. As companies strive to balance budget constraints with competitive benefits, the future of workplace wellness is shifting toward strategic, high-value programs that support employee health without breaking financial sustainability.
How Businesses Are Using Data Analytics to Optimize Employee Benefits Engagement
In today’s competitive job market, businesses are increasingly leveraging data analytics to enhance employee benefits engagement, ensuring that workers fully utilize available resources. Traditional benefits programs often suffer from low participation rates due to lack of awareness, complexity, or misalignment with employee needs. By integrating data-driven insights, companies can personalize benefits offerings, improve communication strategies, and maximize employee satisfaction while optimizing costs.