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UNIT-FOUR: KEEPING PATIENT'S SAFETY AND COMFORT
Objectives: At the end of the unit the trainees will be able to:
1. Identify a condition that needs comfort to the patient
2. Demonstrate how to apply safety devices
3. Apply safety precaution when applying safety devices
4. Use appropriate safety devices to comfort the patient
5. Apply principles of applying heat and cold
6. Give bathe care appropriately
7. Identify the need for elimination

4.1 Managing the patient's safety & comfort

o Safety is a state in which hazards and conditions leading to physical, psychological or material
harm are controlled in order to preserve the health and well-being of individuals and the
community.
o Comfort: Comfort is a feeling of physical and mental well-being freedom from worry, fears
or pain. In general comfort measures are aimed at reliving debilitating symptoms to conserve
energy for healing & fighting infection.

Causes of discomfort:
1. Pain
2. Restriction of movements due to weakness
3. Wrinkled, soiled and wet sheet
4. Delayed or inadequate attention to meet the personal needs.
5. Lack of exercise
6. Temperature extremes
7. Too bright lights and glares
8. Fear and anxiety due to illness
9. Insecurity feeling
10. Lack of sleep
11. uncomfortable position
12. indigestion and irregular bowl movements

1. Pillows
Pillows are used to give comfort, support and to position a patient properly
They are placed over the bed, under the back, between the knees and at the foot of the
bed to prevent foot drop and to prevent the patient from sliding down. They are used to
rest the arm while the patient is having a drip. They can be used for cardiac patients

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