Geriatric nurses should prioritize safety and injury prevention in their practice from "summary" of Geriatric Nursing by Priscilla Ebersole, RN, PhD, FAAN,Theris A. Touhy, ND, APRN, BC
Geriatric nurses play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults in their care. As individuals age, they become more susceptible to injuries and accidents due to a variety of factors such as decreased mobility, sensory impairments, and cognitive decline. Therefore, it is imperative for geriatric nurses to prioritize safety and injury prevention in their practice. One of the key responsibilities of geriatric nurses is to create a safe environment for older adults. This involves assessing the physical surroundings for potential hazards, such as slippery floors, poor lighting, and cluttered spaces, and taking steps to mitigate these risks. By proactively identifying and addressing safety hazards, geriatric nurses can help prevent falls and other accidents that may lead to serious injuries. In addition to environmental safety, geriatric nurses must also consider the unique needs and vulnerabilities of older adults when providing care. This includes being mindful of factors such as medication side effects, muscle weakness, and balance issues that can increase the risk of falls and injuries. By taking a holistic approach to care and considering the individual needs of each older adult, geriatric nurses can tailor their interventions to promote safety and prevent harm. Furthermore, geriatric nurses should educate older adults and their families about strategies for injury prevention. This may include providing guidance on proper body mechanics, encouraging regular exercise to maintain strength and balance, and teaching techniques for safe transfers and mobility. By empowering older adults with knowledge and skills to protect themselves from harm, geriatric nurses can help promote independence and reduce the risk of injuries.- Prioritizing safety and injury prevention is essential for geriatric nurses in their practice. By creating safe environments, addressing individual vulnerabilities, and educating older adults on injury prevention strategies, geriatric nurses can play a critical role in promoting the health and well-being of older adults.
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