- Examples of equipment include frayed electrical cords, loose/missing parts, IV pumps that malfunction, exposed wiring
- All equipment must be inspected and signed off on before using with a patient
- If a patient brings in their own electrical equipment (like a phone charger), inspect it before allowing use
- Equipment must be routinely inspected
- Know process for identifying, tagging, and removing unsafe or broken equipment so that it is fixed promptly
- Teach patient and loved ones about the safe use of equipment needed for health care
- Check outlets and cords for frayed or damaged parts
- IV pumps, SCD’s pumps, wound vacs, respiratory equipment, ventilators, tube feeding pumps, monitors
- Instruct not to touch them and if they are alarming to alert staff to address
- Provide education, do not assume patient knows how to use equipment
- Facilitate appropriate and safe use of equipment
- Do not use electrical items near a water source (sink)
- Educate, reinforce
- Remove malfunctioning equipment from patient care area and report the problem to appropriate personnel
- Tag appropriately and store in a place so that it is not circulated back into regular use without having issue addressed.
- If a patient experiences an electrical shock, ensure device is turned off before touching the patient to prevent yourself getting shocked
Ep067: Safety and Infection Control Safe Use of Equipment Inspect Equipment for Safety Hazards
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NURSING.com Team
