NATURAL DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

NATCEP Day Nine

Objectives

Discuss safety measures to be taken when there is the threat of a tornado or other disaster

Discuss resources that are available in LTCFs in case of power failure

Discuss the NA’s role in a tornado or other disaster

Natural & Man Made Disasters Natural

Tornado Earthquake Flood

Man Made Terrorist-based Chemical spills Forest Fires

Power Failure

Healthcare Facilities Backup generator for essential equipment

Assure plugged into designated outlets with emergency power

Typically outlets are red in color

Tornado Watch & Warning Watch

Conditions are favorable – be ready to act! Close windows and move objects/beds away from

windows Close drapes

Warning Tornado has been sighted Move to safe, designated area

Structural sound Protect from flying glass

Turning the resident on their side away from window Cover with blanket

STNA Role

Remain calm Reassure residents of safety Follow directions Emergency Power needs

Check status of equipment residents are dependent on

ALTERNATIVE TO RESTRAINTS AND SAFE RESTRAINT USE

NATCEP Day Nine

Objectives

Identify the alternatives to restraints Discuss the purpose of restraints

Skill: Applying Vest Restraints in Bed Identify guidelines to follow in the use of

restraints Describe observations to make on the resident

with restraints Discuss NA responsibilities when caring for a

resident with physical restraints Define various types of commonly used

restraints in the LTCF

Alternatives to Restraint Use Social

Diversional Activities Visits Sitters

Physiological Pillows and positioning aids Back massages Exercise programs Outdoor times Needs meet (fluid/food)

Alternatives to Restraint Use Psychosocial Reinforcement

Moved closer to nurse station Calendars & Clocks provided to orient Pictures of significant others Same Staff Assignments Promoting jobs & tasks that the

resident enjoys

When Does a Situation Require Restraints?

When the resident’s safety is in jeopardy LAST Resort when all other

measures/methods have been exhausted

Guidelines to Follow When Applying a Restraint

A restraint can be applied only at the direction of the nurse.

Always follow manufacturer’s instructions. Resident should be allowed as much

movement as possible. Circulation and respiratory function must not

be impaired by the restraint. Bony prominences under a restraint should be

padded to prevent trauma. Restraint should be applied so the resident’s

body is in good alignment.

Danger Signs – Applied Incorrectly

Circulation Color

Lips and/or nails Cold Tingling Pain Pulses less or absent

Respiratory Status Color

Lips and/or nails Difficulty breathing

Types of Restraints

Full Bed Rails Combo of Bed Rails Trunk Restraint Limb Restraints Chairs

How Often Should A Restraint Be Released?

Observe every hour Release every 2 hours

Exercise limbs Reposition or ambulate (walk) Offer toileting Offer fluids/nourishment

Laws Governing Restraint Use CMS (Centers for Medicare and

Medicaid Services Reimbursement

OBRA