Page 42 - Demo

34 Safety and Supplies%u2022 Unplug hair dryers, shavers, etc. when not in use.%u2022 Do not use electrical appliances in the bathtub or shower.%u2022 Make sure water temperature is not hot before getting in bathtub or shower.%u2022 Install a night light.GENERAL SAFETY%u2022 Store all medication in clearly marked, original containers.%u2022 Discard unused or outdated medications by utilizing a local medication drop off site or destroying in kitty litter or coffee grounds. Talk with your hospice nurse for further information. *Please See Separate Flyer For Additional Disposal Instructions.%u2022 Be alert to unsafe conditions. Avoid hurrying.%u2022 If using a wheelchair, make sure the brakes are locked before getting in or out.%u2022 Move the footrest out of the way before trying to stand. Do not stand on the footrests. Place feet firmly on the floor before attempting to stand.%u2022 Store all household cleaning agents out of reach of children. If you can%u2019t put them out of reach, install safety latches on cabinet doors and drawers.%u2022 If you use an electric blanket, use it as a top cover only. Never tuck it in. Also nothing, including pets, should be on top of an electric blanket when it is in use.%u2022 Keep electric heating pads on a low-medium heat. Place the pad on the body. Do not lie on the pad.%u2022 Make sure outdoor steps and sidewalks are in good repair.%u2022 Keep shrubbery trimmed so it doesn%u2019t interfere with stairs or walkways.%u2022 Keep entrance to your home well lit so that a key can be quickly and easily inserted in the door.OXYGEN SAFETYOxygen (often called O2) is a colorless, odorless gas that is part of the air we breathe. It is essential for all cells in our body and helps healing.There are two types of oxygen systems: An oxygen concentrator is for home use only. Portable oxygen is either in an oxygen tank or liquid oxygen.A doctor%u2019s prescription is required. Think of oxygen as a medication. Do not change the liter flow (amount of oxygen flowing through the tubing) without talking with your nurse. Be sure to have at least a three-day supply of portable oxygen on hand so that it does not run out. Your nurse and oxygen supplier will determine what that supply is and arrange a delivery schedule.What are the risks of Oxygen?When oxygen is in use, there is an increased risk of fire. Each type of oxygen system has risks.For example, oxygen tanks and liquid oxygen vessels contain oxygen under pressure which can cause injury if not used correctly.