Relias Assessments – Core Mandatory Part I

Compressed gases pose multiple hazards, including explosions, toxic exposures, and oxygen displacement. If a gas cylinder is damaged or improperly handled, it can explode due to rapid decompression. Some gases are toxic and can cause severe health effects when inhaled, while others can displace oxygen, leading to suffocation. Proper storage and handling are critical to preventing these risks.

Proper glove removal is essential to prevent contamination, and the correct method is to turn them inside out while removing them. Gloves are single-use and should not be washed and reused. Hands should be washed before and after glove use to reduce the risk of infection. Wearing multiple layers of gloves is unnecessary and does not replace proper hand hygiene.

While knowing safe handling precautions is important, the most essential information includes proper usage, chemical contents, and emergency treatments in case of exposure. Understanding what a chemical contains helps determine potential hazards and risks. Knowing what to do in case of accidental exposure ensures quick and appropriate action. Safe handling is generally covered in training and safety protocols.

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) applies to all employees who handle protected health information (PHI), not just healthcare providers. This includes doctors, nurses, administrative staff, engineering staff, and environmental services who may come into contact with patient records. Failure to comply with HIPAA regulations can result in legal consequences. Protecting patient privacy is a legal and ethical responsibility for all employees in healthcare settings.

Chemical labels must include hazard statements, signal words, and pictograms to indicate potential risks. However, personal names are not required on a chemical label. The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals ensures that all chemical hazards are clearly communicated. Proper labeling is essential for workplace safety and regulatory compliance.

P.A.S.S. stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep, which are the steps to properly use a fire extinguisher. First, Pull the pin to unlock the extinguisher, then Aim at the base of the fire. Next, Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent and Sweep the nozzle side to side to cover the fire. Following these steps ensures that the extinguisher is used effectively and safely.

Using your legs instead of your back when lifting helps prevent strain and injury. The proper technique involves bending at the knees, keeping the back straight, and engaging the leg muscles to lift the object. Lifting with the back can cause muscle strain and spinal injuries. Using the legs distributes weight more evenly and reduces stress on the lower back.

Rolling equipment over electrical cords can damage the insulation, expose wires, and create electrical hazards. Electrical safety requires proper handling of plugs, cords, and outlets to prevent electrical fires and shocks. Pulling a cord instead of the plug can weaken the connection and increase the risk of damage. Using broken or loose plugs is hazardous and should be avoided.

Contact Precautions are used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases that are transmitted through direct or indirect contact. This requires wearing PPE such as gloves and gowns to avoid contamination. While airborne precautions require an AIIR and respirators, contact precautions focus on preventing direct touch transmission. These precautions are commonly used for infections like MRSA and C. difficile.