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When They Fall |

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If the person is unable to get to their feet, don't pull on them. Stay calm. Keep the person warm, get them something to drink, prop them up with pillows if necessary.

Stay calm. You can do this. Call a neighbor for assistance, call a couple of them. Stay in control. Have a plan. When you call the neighbors, tell them what happened and what you need from them. Just like Gary did, "Anne fell. Can you come and help us get her back into bed?" Everyone has their own ideas about the best way to do things. You are the caregiver, you live with the patient, you know what is best, what will work and what won't. Make a plan before you need one. Consider taking a first aid course as part of your plan.

All falls should be reported to your nursing staff, or to your doctor. If there are signs of bleeding or the possibility of a broken bone, do not move the patient - call 911. Apply a compress to slow the bleeding (a towel, a sheet - whatever is handy.) Do keep the patient warm and calm.

Linda J. Austin writes from experience as a nursing assistance and a family caregiver. "When I was assigned my first hospice case, I found my place in life." Retired from several careers, Linda is studying creative art therapy.