A New Beginning

Important Safety Information

FALLS Even though you may not have a history of falling, you are at risk for falling while in the hospital. When you can safely get out of bed on your own depends on your type of delivery, anesthesia, and clinical condition. Do not get out of bed the first time without help. It’s important to notify your nurse to make sure you can safely walk and stand. Walking is an important part of your recovery, but labor analgesia, pain medications, IVs, and different surroundings put you at risk for falling.

Preventing Infections

Preventing infections is important to your healthy recovery. Let your nurse know if you or your partner have been exposed to an infection. Report any symptoms you may have as soon as possible. Remember, handwashing is the single most important way to

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prevent an infection. Handwashing Tips

• Wash your hands before and after you go to the bathroom, breastfeed, touch someone else, sneeze, cough, prepare a bottle, change a diaper or blow your nose. • Remove your jewelry before washing your hands. • Wash hands for 30 seconds cleaning your whole hand, under nails, between fingers and up to your wrist. • Turn the water off with a clean paper towel. • Dry with paper towel, clean cloth but not your clothes. • If using a hand sanitizer, use an adequate amount to cover your hands and rub until it dries.

Tips to Prevent Falls • Wear nonslip socks • Keep your hospital bed in the lowest position with the side rails up • Keep the nurse call bell and any items that you frequently need within reach • Do not fall asleep in the chair; if you’re tired, lie on your bed • Keep the path from your bed to the bathroom clear

Tell your nurse immediately if you: • Feel or become lightheaded • Become dizzy • Need help • Fall

Chapter Resources

• Lexicomp Online Drug Reference https://go.wolterskluwer.com/lexicomp-drug-reference LexiCom Mobile App

• National Institutes of Medicine (NIH) Drug Information Portal https://druginfo.nlm.nih.gov MD on Tap Mobile App

16 A New Beginning