Nursing 104

N104: Essentials of Nursing Care – Health Safety Study Guide or family should be instructed to always call a poison control center before using any home remedy. • Medications: Many medications can be harmful or fatal if taken by the debilitated, children, or in doses that exceed recommendations. This includes common over the counter (OTC) medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin. Families with young children should be instructed to keep all medications in child resistant containers and in cabinets, which are out of reach of young children. • Disinfectants and pesticides: Many disinfectants and pesticides contain alcohol and other harmful substances that can be highly toxic in small amounts. These cleaners should be kept in securely closed containers and in cabinets with child-proof closures. • Paint: Lead-based paint in houses built before 1990 should be considered a hazardfor lead poisoning. The astute nurse caring for a pediatric patient will ask about the age of the home and suggest testing for lead in thepaint. • Carbon monoxide: Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that is produced by car exhaust, gas furnaces, and some stoves. Every family should be encouraged to have a carbon monoxide detector in the home. Ecological Hazards Ecological hazards include any form of pollution in the environment. Common forms of pollution include air pollution, water pollution, and noise pollution. • Air pollution: Air pollution can be created by cars, industry, or burning by individuals. While levels of acceptable pollution may be legislated, children or individuals with respiratory problems may be at high risk for issues when exposed to air pollution. • Water pollution: Wastes and chemicals are the primary causes of water pollution. In industrialized countries where water treatment is controlled, the dangers from water pollution are not usually an issue when drinking water from approved sources. There may be an increased risk for diseases in fish and other food sources taken from contaminatedwater. • Noise pollution: Noise can be a hazard to all ages. Noise levels above 85 decibels, particularly exposure for a prolonged time, can cause hearing loss. Thermal Hazards Thermal hazard injuries can be a result of excessive heat or cold. o Heat injuries: Heat injuries can be caused by fire, hot water, or heating pads. The nurse should assess the patient's home environment to determine if any of these hazards exist in the home. o Smoke detectors should be used and batteries in the detectors should bechanged every six months to ensure they are working. Every family should know the RACE acronym and what it means in terms of firesafety. § R escue anyone in the home § Set off an A larm § C onfine the fire by closing doors § E xtinguish the fire if possible

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