Safety at Heart: 20 Proven Safety Tips For Hospice Nurses

As a hospice nurse, ensuring the well-being of your patients while prioritizing your safety is essential. Recently, I read a report released by National Nurses United, that stated eight out of 10 nurses have been the victim of workplace violence. From ensuring the well-being of your patients to your security, here’s a look at my top 20 safety tips for hospice nurses.

Why Are Home Hospice Nurses At Risk?

Let’s face it, sometimes the world is a scary place. Over my many years as a hospice nurse, I’ve seen everything from nurses having their cars stolen to having their windows busted.

Unfortunately, being a healthcare provider in the community comes with some risks.

For instance, if you’re new to hospice nursing, you might be caught off guard when you work alone in challenging environments. This can include visiting patients’ homes at odd hours of the day and night, traveling to high-crime areas, or even emotionally charged situations where family dynamics are strained.

With nurses increasingly becoming targets of violence or theft, it’s even more important for hospice nurses to be proactive about safety. There are numerous factors to consider.

20 Safety Tips for Hospice Nurses

Providing compassionate care in patients’ homes is both rewarding and challenging. Below are 20 safety tips to help you navigate the home hospice setting confidently and cautiously.

PHONE SAFETY TIPS

Program Emergency Numbers
Save the phone numbers of local police departments for the areas you cover. While 911 is always a good option, having direct numbers can save precious time in emergencies.
Keep Your Phone Accessible
Keep your cell phone in your pocket, not in your bag. It’s your lifeline in an emergency and should be easily accessible.
Keep Your Phone Charged
A dead phone is useless in an emergency. Make sure your phone is fully charged before heading out, and consider carrying a portable charger.
Confirm Your Arrival
Always call ahead so the patient or their family is expecting you. This avoids surprises and ensures you’re walking into a prepared environment.

HOME ENVIRONMENT SAFETY TIPS

Stay Calm and Don’t Match Energy
In emotionally charged situations, remain calm and acknowledge the other person’s feelings. This can help de-escalate tense situations.
Know Your Exits
Always be aware of where the exits are, and keep a clear path to them. This tip, commonly taught in psychiatric nursing, can be vital in unexpected situations.
Buddy System
If possible, use a buddy system for visits in high-risk areas. Inform a colleague or supervisor of your location, especially if you’re feeling uneasy about a particular visit.
Carry a Noise Device
Carry a noise-making device or personal alarm to signal for help if you feel unsafe.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Always assess your environment when entering a new home. Pay attention to anything unusual or suspicious, and trust your instincts.
Assess the Neighborhood
Think of it as if you were buying a home. Is the neighborhood safe? If it feels unsafe, proceed with caution or request backup.

CAR SAFETY TIPS

Check Road Conditions
Bad weather or poor road conditions can add additional risks to your visits. Always check road conditions before heading out and plan alternate routes if necessary.
Have Accurate Directions
Ensure you have the correct directions before leaving. GPS is helpful, but double-check the address to avoid getting lost.
Use Apple Tags for Your Car
Consider placing an Apple Tag or similar tracking device in your car. There have been reports of hospice nurses’ cars being stolen, and this precaution can help recover it quickly.
Lock Your Car and Keep Valuables Hidden
When visiting homes, always lock your car, even if you’re only away for a short time. Keep any valuables hidden out of sight.

PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS

Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, don’t ignore it. It’s better to leave a situation and reassess than to put yourself at risk.
Set Boundaries with Patients and Families
Make sure to establish clear professional boundaries with patients and their families. This can prevent uncomfortable situations from escalating.
Keep a Low Profile
Try to blend in with the environment. Don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself by displaying valuables or behaving in a way that could make you a target.
Have a Backup Plan
Always have a plan in case you need to leave a home quickly. This could mean having a colleague on standby or knowing the quickest route to the nearest police station or hospital.
Carry Identification
Always carry your identification and credentials, but keep them concealed unless needed. Some hospice nurses wear IDs that can be tucked away for added discretion.
Dress for Safety
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that allow you to move freely and quickly. Avoid wearing anything that could make you a target, such as expensive or excessive jewelry.

Car Safety Checklist for Hospice Nurses

Check Oil, Tires, and Fluids: Ensure your vehicle is maintained properly. Check the oil, tire pressure, and fluid levels regularly.
Keep Your Car Filled with Gas: Don’t wait until the last minute to fill up your tank. Always keep it at least half full.
Lock Doors at All Times: Even when driving between visits, keep your car doors locked.
Keep Maps or GPS On-Hand: Have a GPS device or map available to ensure you don’t get lost in unfamiliar areas.
Keep Emergency Supplies: Keep a first aid kit, flashlight, blanket, and non-perishable snacks in your car in case you get stranded.
Spare Tire and Tools: Make sure your spare tire is in good condition and you have the tools needed to change it.
Emergency Roadside Assistance: Have the contact information for roadside assistance in case you encounter car trouble.
Apple Tags or Tracking Device: Consider installing a tracking device on your car to help locate it if it’s stolen.
Park in Well-Lit Areas: Always park in a well-lit area, especially if you’re visiting patients at night.
Check Your Surroundings Before Exiting: Be aware of your surroundings when getting in and out of your car, particularly in unfamiliar areas.

It’s always important to make sure that your car trunk is stocked. Get your free trunk checklist to ensure you have all of the supplies you need.

Conclusion

As a hospice nurse, your personal safety is a high priority. This includes taking precautions both inside and outside of the patient’s home. Your vigilance can ensure your safety and make the difference in how your day goes.

Don’t be afraid to ask about safety precautions and to speak up if you are uncomfortable about a situation. Even if you think it’s something small, trust your gut and instincts.

I’m a firm believer that is better to be proactive than it is to be reactive. You are making a difference everyday.