What To Do When a Client Falls: An In-Home Caregiver’s Guide

Being an in-home caregiver is one of the most rewarding careers. But as with any job, it’s not without its demands and stressors. In fact, one of the most common concerns that family caregivers and PCAs have is what to do when a client falls.

At Best Home Care, we specialize in helping those in need of homecare services find the best PCAs and in-home caregivers to help them perform their daily tasks and live independently in the comfort of their own homes. In addition, we also strive to provide caregivers with the best resources to perform their responsibilities with experience, knowledge, and professional care.

This week we would like to provide some tips on how to handle a common emergency, especially while providing homecare for seniors. Here are some ways to stay prepared in case a client trips over an object or falls to the ground.

How To Prevent a Fall in Home Care

1. First, take a look around your client's living space and note any places that could present a risk of tripping or losing balance. This includes chairs, rugs, or steps throughout the home.
2. Be prepared with emergency numbers, as well as numbers of family members, in case of a fall.
3. If you are with your client when he/she falls, use your body to break the fall while keeping your feet wide apart and knees bent. Try to protect his/her head from hitting the ground.

How to Care for a Client After a Fall

1. First and foremost, call 911. Even if the client seems okay; they can help walk you through what to do next.
2. Check the client’s blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate. Check for injuries including scrapes, bruises, and broken bones.
3. Speak to the client, asking how they feel, take note if he/she seems confused or dizzy.
4. Do not raise his/her head or neck, call local medical professionals and wait for their assistance before helping the client off the ground.
5. If a medical staff member decides the client can be moved, do not try to help he/she up on your own, always have at least two people present to help the client.
6. Continue to monitor the client closely.

For any more tips on in-home caregiving or for questions on Best Home Care and our services, visit our website or email us at info@besthomecaremn.com.