Unsafe conditions lead to hazards that may affect the safety and security of loved ones in a home environment. In addition to preventing injury among caregivers, preventing injuries to patients as a result of falls is a major goal of everyone in the healthcare field. Educating family members in proper lifting techniques, medicine safety concerns, and others aspects involved in home health care is a major concern.
In addition, issues of dignity and quality of life need to be addressed by caregivers. Patients who are not moved often enough often experience skin infections and bedsores that may result in decubitus ulcers that threaten the overall health and condition of the patient.
Taking care of a loved one is not only emotionally demanding, but also is physically demanding as well.
Home care providers should ask professional CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) as well as nursing or physical therapy staff for tips on the best methods to help transfer or lift their loved ones when in a home environment.
Says Sewell, "Non-professional caregivers are responsible for obtaining the education they need to properly care for loved ones at home. Many County Health Nursing Departments offer community-based resources that offer training on basic care giving skills for non-professionals. Another option is to call local hospitals for information, who might even suggest professional training through a Certified Nurse's Aide class."
The focus on home care is safety - both for the care receiver and the caregiver.