Module 4: Prevention and Management of Catastrophes and Unusual Occurrences

Section 1: Define Key Terminology

• Review and understand key terms.
• Spell and pronounce terms correctly.
• Use terms in the correct context.

Section 2: The Role of the Nurse Assistant in Emergency, Disaster, and Fire Situations

A. Be Prepared

• Know emergency codes, facility rules, fire and disaster plans.
• Locate fire exits, extinguishers, and alarms.

B. Remain Calm

C. Use Emergency Call System

• Different telephone numbers are used within each facility.
• Licensed nurse activates EMS by dialing 911.

D. Do Not Shout in Emergencies

E. "Stat" Meaning

• Respond immediately if there is an urgent need.

F. Direct Family or Visitors

• Send them to the designated area.

G. Use RACE and PASS Protocols

• Follow policy guidelines.

H. Act Within Knowledge Level

I. Move Patients in Danger

J. Stay with Patients

K. Provide Comfort and Calm

L. Evacuate Patients Safely

Section 3: Keeping Patients and Families Calm

• Stay calm and use a calm voice.
• Project confidence.
• Know and use facility emergency codes and plans.
• Stay with and keep patients comfortable.
• Direct families and visitors to safe areas.

Section 4: Common Emergency Codes

• Codes may differ by facility.
• Code Red: Fire
• Code Blue: Adult medical emergency
• Code Yellow: Bomb threat
• Code Gray: Combative person
• Code Silver: Weapon or hostage situation
• Code Orange: Hazardous material spill

Section 5: General Safety Rules for Nurse Assistants

A. Use Body Mechanics and Ergonomics

B. Follow OSHA Guidelines

• Handle hazardous materials with care.

C. Immediate Spill Clean-Up

D. Safe Movement in Halls

• Walk; don't run.

E. Use Properly Labeled Containers

F. Report Unsafe Situations

G. Use Proper Electrical Equipment

• Three-pronged plugs recommended.

H. Report Personal Injuries Immediately

• Fill incident reports as per policy.

Section 6: Ensuring Patient Safety

• Familiarize with National Patient Safety Goals.
• Verify patient identity before tasks.
• Use side rails and assistive devices.
• Ensure patient comfort and safety features (e.g., call bell within reach).

Section 7: Top Safety Issues and Interventions

A. Falls

• 70% of accidents happen between 4-8 PM.
• Implement fall prevention strategies.

B. Assistive Device Usage

• Types include canes, walkers, wheelchairs.

C. Burns

• Types: steam, chemical, thermal, sunburn.
• Prevention is key; monitor water temperature, smoking, and hot equipment.

Section 8: Major Fire Causes and Prevention

• Smoking, faulty equipment, improper rubbish disposal.
• Fire needs fuel, flame, and oxygen.
• Follow electrical and smoking safety protocols.

Section 9: Oxygen Therapy Safety

A. Oxygen Use

• Increases fire risk; follow specific safety guidelines.

B. Equipment and Safety Measures

• No smoking signs, maintain tubing, check electrical equipment.

C. Nursing Care for Oxygen

• Requires a physician's order.
• Monitor nasal dryness, tubing positioning.

Section 10: Postural Supports

A. Use and Purpose

• Prevent harm, maintain posture, and reduce self-harm risk.

B. Alternatives to Devices

• Ensure supervision and comfort to avoid restraints.

C. Protective Devices

• Types: vests, limb devices, waist devices.

D. Regulations and Application

• Must have doctor's order; document use and effectiveness.

Section 11: Legal and Psychological Implications

A. Legal

• Requires consent and a doctor's order.

B. Psychological

• Explain to patients and families; provide reassurance.

Section 12: Overview of Bioterrorism

A. Types of Threats

• Biological, chemical, explosions, nuclear.

B. National Terrorism Advisory System

• Replaces color-coded system with alert levels.

C. Sunset Provision

• Alerts expire after a specific time.