CareGiver Training Institute
Essential Roles: How Caregivers and Nursing Assistants Lead in Falls Prevention
• Risk Assessment: Identifying and assessing fall risks in both home and facility environments such as medication side effects, balance issues, muscle weakness, and environmental hazards. • Environmental Safety: Students learn to make living spaces safer by ensuring good lighting, removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars, and advising appropriate footwear. • Mobility Assistance: Training covers proper body mechanics and techniques for safely assisting with mobility, such as helping individuals move from beds to chairs, walk with or without assistive devices, and use wheelchairs. This highlights the critical need for effective falls prevention strategies and well-trained care providers to support individuals, both at home and in care facilities. CGTI's Caregiver and Nursing Assistant training programs are designed to equip these healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively prevent and respond to falls. Here are some key components of their training: Falls are a significant concern for older adults, both in their homes and in care facilities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Approximately one in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each year in their home setting. In long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, the rate of falls is even higher with approximately 50% of residents falling each year, and some falling multiple times. These falls often result in more severe injuries due to the frailer condition of residents in these settings.
Congratulations to our newest Healthcare Heros! Well done!
• Use of Assistive Devices: Students are trained in the correct use of assistive devices such as walkers, canes, and wheelchairs. This includes fitting devices properly and instructing individuals on how to use them safely. • Emergency Response: Responding quickly and effectively if a fall occurs is critical. This includes assessing the situation, knowing when to call for emergency help, documenting the occurrence and coordinating with the care team. • Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment: Training emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring for new fall risks and making necessary adjustments to care plans. Students are taught to stay vigilant and proactive in their approach to fall prevention. By covering these areas, CGTI caregiver and nursing assistant graduates are well equipped to provide high-quality care and ensure the safety and well-being of those they support.
Meaningful Healthcare Careers Start at CGTI
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“After graduating from CGTI, I went on to nursing school. I have had been able to work as an RN caring for people in hospitals, hospices, disaster response, and home health. I am so grateful for my training at CGTI!”
Page 38 | September/October 2024, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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