Comprehensive Safety Protocols for Geriatric Care Settings

1. Physical Environment Safety

Facility Requirements

• Non-slip flooring throughout facility
• Adequate lighting (min. 100 foot-candles)
• Handrails in all corridors and bathrooms
• Wheelchair-accessible doorways (min. 32 inches)
• Clear pathways free of obstacles

Equipment Safety

• Monthly inspection of mobility aids
• Regular calibration of medical devices
• Daily cleaning and sanitization protocols
• Proper storage of oxygen tanks and medical supplies

2. Patient Assessment Protocols

Initial Safety Screening

• Fall risk assessment (using validated tools)
• Cognitive status evaluation
• Medication reconciliation
• Home safety assessment documentation

Ongoing Monitoring

• Quarterly mobility assessments
• Monthly medication reviews
• Regular vital signs monitoring protocol
• Depression and isolation screening

3. Emergency Procedures

Medical Emergencies

• Code Blue response protocol
• Rapid response team activation criteria
• Emergency equipment locations
• Staff role assignments

Facility Emergencies

• Evacuation procedures for mobility-impaired patients
• Weather emergency protocols
• Power failure contingency plans
• Communication cascade system

4. Infection Control

Standard Precautions

• Hand hygiene protocols
• PPE requirements and storage
• Surface disinfection schedules
• Isolation procedures

5. Documentation Requirements

Daily Safety Checks

• Environment safety checklist
• Equipment functionality verification
• Incident reporting procedures
• Safety audit documentation

6. Staff Training

Required Competencies

• Safe patient transfer techniques
• Fall prevention strategies
• Emergency response procedures
• Infection control practices

7. Quality Assurance

Monitoring and Review

• Monthly safety committee meetings
• Quarterly incident analysis
• Annual protocol review
• Performance improvement initiatives