QC
February 6, 2014 | Quebec
A Priority for Keeping People Safe
A fall can have serious consequences for a person's health, independence, and quality of life. That is why fall prevention is an important part of the assistance provided in healthcare facilities, residential care settings, and people's homes.
Patient Service Associates or Orderlies help create safer environments by remaining alert to situations that may increase a person's risk of falling.
Fall prevention is an important part of CDI College's Support for Assistive Services in Health and Social Services Institutions – 5905 DVS program, in which students develop the skills needed to provide safe assistance to diverse populations.
Recognizing Fall Risks
Every person has different abilities and needs.
Reduced mobility, balance difficulties, fatigue, or the use of certain equipment can increase the risk of falling.
Patient Service Associates remain alert to these factors so they can adapt their approach and help keep the people they support safe.
Providing Safe Mobility Assistance
Moving from one place to another can be a time when the risk of falling is particularly high.
Patient Service Associates use appropriate transfer and mobility techniques and, when needed, the equipment provided to help people move safely.
These practices help protect both the person receiving assistance and the Patient Service Associate.
👉 Learn more: Why Are Safe Transfer Techniques Essential in Healthcare?
Creating a Safer Environment
Fall prevention involves more than directly assisting the person.
Patient Service Associates also help maintain a safe environment by paying attention to potential hazards in the setting where they are assisting.
This awareness is an important part of everyday practices that help keep people safe.
👉 Learn more: Why Do Patient Service Associates Need to Help Maintain a Safe Environment?
Skills Developed During Training
CDI College's Support for Assistive Services in Health and Social Services Institutions – 5905 DVS program prepares students to recognize situations that could put the safety of the people they support at risk.
Through courses, hands-on labs, and practicums, students develop the skills needed to mitigate risks, adapt their approach, and contribute to a safe environment across a variety of health and social services settings.
This preparation helps them develop the care and professionalism needed to apply safe practices as they enter the workforce.
Everyday Awareness That Helps Prevent Falls
Fall prevention depends on many small actions throughout the day.
By carefully observing situations, adapting their approach, and applying the safe practices developed during training, Patient Service Associates help protect the people they support while encouraging independence in a safer environment.
Explore Further
👉 Why Are Assistive Devices Important in Care and Assistance?
👉 Why Is Rest Important for the Well-Being of People Receiving Assistance?
👉 Why Is a Person-Centred Approach at the Heart of a Patient Service Associate's Work?
