During a fall, what is the recommended action for staff to minimize injury?

During a fall, what is the recommended action for staff to minimize injury?

• A. Widen stance and bring the resident's body close
• B. Catch under the arms to stop the fall
• C. Lock knees
• D. Move out of the way

Answer: (A)

When a fall begins, the priority is to protect both the resident and yourself by controlling the descent with a stable base. Widening your stance lowers your center of gravity and creates a stronger base of support, making it easier to absorb the fall with your legs rather than your back. Keeping the resident close to your body helps slow the fall and shields their head and neck from hitting the floor or obstacles. Catching under the arms can cause injuries to both people and is difficult to control. Locking the knees eliminates proper shock absorption and can transfer force upward to your spine. Moving out of the way risks the resident striking the floor or nearby equipment. So, widening your stance and holding the resident close is the safest, most effective approach to minimize injury.

When a fall begins, the priority is to protect both the resident and yourself by controlling the descent with a stable base. Widening your stance lowers your center of gravity and creates a stronger base of support, making it easier to absorb the fall with your legs rather than your back. Keeping the resident close to your body helps slow the fall and shields their head and neck from hitting the floor or obstacles.

Catching under the arms can cause injuries to both people and is difficult to control. Locking the knees eliminates proper shock absorption and can transfer force upward to your spine. Moving out of the way risks the resident striking the floor or nearby equipment. So, widening your stance and holding the resident close is the safest, most effective approach to minimize injury.