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Just a Wobble

One Step at a Time · Episode 1 · Free

Just a Wobble

Arturo stands up fast, sways and grabs the side table. "I'm fine," he says. Imani isn't so sure.

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Key takeawayA near-miss is a warningA wobble, a trip or a grab for the furniture is a fall that almost happened. Report near-misses like you would a fall. Check for dizziness on standing, slippery socks or loose shoes, and other causes. Teach the person to sit at the edge, pause, then stand slowly, and write down what you saw.

In this scene

Arturo: Whoa. Just a little wobble. I'm fine, I'm fine.

Imani: Let's sit back down a second. A wobble is your body telling us something.

Imani: Did the room spin when you stood? And are those your socks on this wood floor?

Arturo: A little spin. My slippers are by the bed. I didn't think it mattered.

Imani: Sit at the edge first, count to ten, feet flat, then up. And shoes with a grip.

Imani: Hi, it's Imani with Mr. Reyes. Near-miss this morning: dizzy when he stood up. No fall. I'm writing it up.

Questions to think about

  • Arturo wobbles but doesn't fall. You:
  • Before standing up, he should:
  • Socks on a wood floor are:

About this series

For home care aides and caregivers: near-misses, home hazards, helping someone stand safely, walking aids, nights, unreported falls and blood thinners, never rushing, strength, fear of falling and the fall prevention plan. Follow the person's care plan, your agency's policies and your therapist's or nurse's instructions. See the whole series

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