Seguridad del Paciente

Key wellness & safety strategies (patient and caregiver responsibilities)

Overall message: Patient safety is a shared responsibility among patients, families, companions, and healthcare professionals.

1) Prevent risk of falls

• Identify and watch for areas that could be fall hazards for the patient.
• Request help if moving around the room or leaving it—use nursing staff assistance.
• Keep bed/stretcher rails raised.
• Use non-slip footwear.
• Ensure higher-risk patients remain with a companion, including:
  • Patients under 18 or over 60
  • People with physical or mental disabilities
  • Patients undergoing toxicology or psychiatric treatment
• Use the call button to get assistance from nursing staff.

2) Reduce risk related to medication administration

• On admission, inform the doctor of all medications being taken, including:
  • Homeopathic remedies
  • Herbal remedies
• Don’t take medications on your own during the hospital stay—let the doctor prescribe and nursing staff administer.
• If any reaction occurs:
  • Inform nursing staff immediately
  • Provide the names of the medications and relevant details
• Ensure staff know:
  • What the medications are
  • What they are for
  • Their possible side effects

3) Prevent pressure ulcers (skin breakdown)

• Change the patient’s position every two hours.
• Keep skin meticulously dry, especially:
  • Between skin folds
• Moisturize appropriately to protect the skin.
• Do not massage reddened areas.
• Change diapers frequently (if applicable).
• Establish a physical exercise/mobility program as appropriate.
• If needed, include foods that are protein- and calorie-rich in the diet.

Team approach: The hospital emphasizes working as a team and counts on patient/family participation.

Presenters / Sources

• San José University Children’s Hospital — (“Warm and Reliable Hands”)