Resident Safety - Glacier View Lodge

Living in a residence presents some different safety issues than at home. In order to keep both residents and staff safe, we have some simple policies we need everyone to follow.

Infection Control

We encourage families and friends to visit, but please don’t bring germs with you. If you have a cough, cold, or flu symptoms, please visit on another day when you’re feeling better. Hand washing is recommended both on your way in to visit and on your way out.

Medication Safety

For accurate monitoring and resident safety, we require that all medications come from our pharmacy and are administered by a staff nurse. On admission, you will be asked to give the nurse any and all medications you have with you. We also ask that family do not provide any medications, herbal remedies, or over-the-counter drugs to any residents when you visit.

Falls Prevention

Our staff is always on the look out to prevent residents from falling. On admission, please provide the nurse with any information regarding recent falls at home and any mobility aids used at home.

We ask that the resident have good fitting footwear with non-skid soles. Please avoid the gift or use of talcum powder as it contributes to a slippery surface. If you see a spill, please help to keep the area safe by wiping it up. Scatter rugs are not recommended in the rooms.

We like to keep residents as active as possible. Doing so may require a Physio, Occupational Therapist, walker, wheelchair, or other wheeled chair. Resident or family are responsible for the costs associated with these services or equipment.

Food and Alcohol Safety

Many of our residents have food allergies or swallowing difficulties. Visitors bringing in specialty foods are asked to check with the staff before sharing food items with residents. Alcohol for residents is kept by and dispensed by the nurse.

Scooters and Power Wheelchairs

Scooters are not allowed for indoor use, but can be used in the grounds and on the HandyDart. Power wheelchairs may be used indoors with permission and an annual OT assessment. Permission is based on demonstrating a need and safe operation.

Restraint

Missing Residents

Knowing the whereabouts of our residents is essential. If you’re taking a resident out, please let staff know and sign out. Please do not assist other residents out or offer lifts to town. If we are unable to locate a resident, we will be calling the RCMP. We have a Watchmate system for those who tend to head for the exits and who would not be safe unattended outside. Visitors may hear an alarm at the door or be unable to enter when such a resident is near the doorway.

Fire Safety

All electrical appliances brought into a resident’s room should be CSA approved. Please help to avoid having too much clutter in the resident’s room, keeping in mind staff safety when providing care and in the event of evacuation during a fire.Should visitors arrive when a fire alarm is ringing, we ask that they do not enter the building until the alarm situation is resolved.