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Sharing for Patient Safety: Eye Institute removes obstacles

 
Sharing for Patient Safety: Eye Institute removes obstacles

Ginette Lalonde-Diver RN, Eye Institute

As the general population continues to age, more patients will be diagnosed with macular degeneration and other forms of vision loss. My role in patient safety is to always advocate and speak up for our low-vision patients.

What are some barriers or challenges that you face?
The Eye Institute previously had a small entrance with easy access to our unit. However our shared space with the Critical Care Wing is now very big and traffic has increased greatly. We now have over 5,000 patients a month coming to the third floor. This can be problematic for our low-vision patients who may not see everyday hazards and risks in the environment, such as equipment left unattended in the corridor. Not all of our low-vision patients have white canes or seeing-eye dogs. It takes time for patients to accept their new condition and that is when they are at the most risk for injury.

What solutions or strategies have you put in place?
We ensure that all areas have proper lighting and we remove obstacles so patients can easily use the handrail. We call for a porter or volunteer to accompany patients to where they need to go. Our team also meets with patients and their families to advise them about vision change after examinations where the patient’s eyes have been dilated.

When a sudden loss of vision occurs, the impact on lives is immense. We involve families for safety and personal care. An important start is connecting them with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind and other support groups in the community.

How do you ensure patient safety continues to be important to you?
We must be proactive in protecting our patients and take note of any potential risks. In our busy work place, staff members tend to walk quickly while looking at their iPhones, or neglect to pick up napkins or tissues on the floor. These situations can result in falls or injuries that lead to loss of independence for low-vision patients. I must always remind myself about how staff behaviour can impact the safety of our patients.

 
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