How would you handle staff who are not following appropriate safety and health guidelines?

"I am always watching for staff not complying with safety and health policies. Patient care is my priority, but I'm aware that because we are a skilled nursing facility, the state could come in at any time to do an inspection, and if we fail, that could have severe consequences if we're not in compliance. For example, if I notice staff not handwashing properly, I will address it immediately with re-education and document it. If it's not the first instance, it could result in a write-up. We must adhere to strict standards to keep our residents safe and prevent the spread of infection."

"I take patient safety and health very seriously, so if I observe a staff member violating protocol, I address it immediately. I once saw a nurse aide assisting a fall-risk resident with ambulation without a gait belt. I quickly intervened and provided one to the aide to use and, afterward, re-educated him on the importance of using a gait belt and the expectation going forward. I have no problem addressing issues like this with our staff and providing re-education or disciplinary action as needed."

I always start with education. I have to make sure the staff knows the policies/ procedures as well as why they need to follow them. If I personally see a staff member do something that is unsafe or may jeopardize a patients well-being I will address it right then. I will do on-the-spot education with the staff. If I notice it is a widespread issue among a lot of staff, I will do education with the whole unit. Once the education is done if the same unsafe practices are being formed, then I will have to start the disciplinary process.