Clinical Safety

General Safety

Don’t attempt to do anything which you feel is unethical, unsafe or beyond your capacity. If this concern arises during your placement, contact the appropriate faculty for clarification and guidance.

During placements, follow the policies and procedures of the facility. To protect yourself and others, both a facility and College incident form must be filled out when any incident occurs. A copy of any incident report occurring on placement must be provided to BOTH the Clinical Coordinator/Liaison and the Fennell campus Health Services office (phone 905-575-2084, fax 905-575-2416). Mohawk College carries appropriate liability coverage in the event of a legal suit on the grounds of malpractice. Students are covered under the broad umbrella of this policy as students of the College as long as they are involved in an approved educational experience.

A safety checklist is to be completed as a requirement for each placement course. See placement course module for details.

Techniques for Moving Patients (if applicable)

• Stand as close as possible to the load.
• Spread feet apart for balance, and keep floor area clear.
• Squat down (knees bent) while supporting your spine in a straight line.
• Grip load securely, keeping your spine straight to support the load.
• Use your arms and legs to transmit the power to lift.
• Give only the assistance needed to aid the patient in moving.
• Always transfer across the shortest distance.
• Always assist the patient at their weak side, and move them towards their unaffected side, and whenever practical towards you.
• To prevent slipping, lock all wheels on chairs, beds and stretchers.
• To aid in transfer and to obtain the patient’s co-operation tell them what you are going to do in a step-by-step manner, and give simple, short commands.
• Always get sufficient help for lifting when needed.