Patient’s Personal Checklist
Know Proper Transfer Techniques
Bed to chair – Chair to bed – Chair to toilet – Toilet to chair
Wheelchair Safety
Ramps (12ft. length for each 1 ft. rise) – Check furniture placement – Keep wheels locked when stationary – Keep feet on footrests
Staircase Safety
Have proper hand rails – Label first and last steps – Use non-skid treads on steps – Maintain sufficient lighting
Know Proper Ambulation Techniques
Use safety belt if indicated – Use walker when indicated – Use can when indicated – Use crutches when indicated
Poison Prevention
Label all poisons – Keep all substances in their original containers – Keep IPECAC syrup on hand
Store all cleaning agents away from food and medications
Safe Medication Use
Have a written medication schedule – Keep all medications in original containers – Know and watch for side effects of any medications in home
Clearly label medications
Bathroom Safety
Keep electrical equipment away from water – Maintain sufficient lighting – Handrails by tub and toilet – Skid proof floor covering
Use bathtub mats – Use only stable tub seats/benches
Fall Prevention
Do not over way floors – Use non-skid wax – Lift feet when walking – Wear proper fitting shoes
Wear shoes with rubber soles – Watch out for oxygen tubing – Do leg strengthening exercises – Watch thresholds in doorway
Avoid or anchor throw rugs – Avoid gait barriers – Keep side rails on hospital bed up – Maintain proper lighting
Avoid extension cords – Work on balance – Avoid slippery surfaces – Remove all clutter
Use extra caution if using tranquilizers – Tape down telephone cords if on floor
Fire & Electrical Safety / Burn Prevention
Use caution when smoking – Check batteries in smoke detectors monthly – Practice fire drills – Unplug appliances after use
Store flammables properly – Use caution with heating pads – Do Not smoke in bed – Do Not sleep with heating pads turned on
Label hot and cold faucets – Keep oven and stove burners off – Turn pot handles to back of stove
Report faulty wiring and outlets – Have fire extinguishers handy – Avoid use of extension cords