Hazardous Items and Safety Risks
When a loved one is moving into a long-term care facility, safety is the number one priority. Nursing homes are communal living environments with specific regulations designed to protect all residents. Because of this, many items that are commonplace in a private home are strictly prohibited due to fire hazards or potential for injury. It is critical to consult the specific facility's policy, but some common examples of hazardous items include:
- Flammable Liquids: This category can include seemingly benign items like aerosol sprays, lighter fluid, and certain cleaning supplies. These are banned to prevent fire risks in a facility where residents might not be able to react quickly in an emergency.
- Sharp Objects: Knives, scissors, and razors are often restricted or their use is supervised by staff. This is a precaution against accidental injury to residents or staff. Some facilities may provide approved safety razors or have staff assist with grooming.
- Small Appliances with Heating Elements: Toasters, electric blankets, space heaters, and personal coffee makers are often forbidden due to fire risks. Many facilities are equipped with central heating and cooling, and kitchen appliances are managed by staff in a communal setting.
Valuables and Irreplaceable Possessions
The risk of lost, stolen, or damaged items is a real concern in any communal living environment, and a nursing home is no exception. While staff do their best to ensure a secure environment, residents' rooms are not always under constant surveillance, and items can be misplaced or inadvertently taken by other residents, particularly those with cognitive impairments.
Money and Financial Documents: Avoid bringing large sums of cash, credit cards, or checkbooks. Most facilities have a system for residents to manage small amounts of spending money, often through a community account. For peace of mind, financial documents should be stored in a secure location outside of the facility.
Expensive Jewelry and Heirlooms: It is best to leave valuable and sentimental jewelry at home with a trusted family member. Inexpensive, replaceable costume jewelry is a much safer alternative for daily wear. Heirlooms, antiques, and other irreplaceable keepsakes can be damaged or lost and are best enjoyed during family visits rather than kept in the room.
Digital and Photographic Records: While many families choose to bring photos to decorate a room, original, irreplaceable photo albums should be kept in a safe place. Consider digitizing old photos or printing copies to display in the resident's room.
Large and Unnecessary Furniture
Space in nursing home rooms is typically limited. Oversized furniture from a previous, larger home can clutter the new living space, create tripping hazards, and impede staff and residents' movement.
Oversized Couches or Chairs: The facility will provide basic furnishings like a bed, closet, and nightstand. Many facilities will allow a favorite recliner or comfortable chair, but it is important to confirm space limitations first.
Throw Rugs and Floor Mats: While they might make a room feel cozier, these are often tripping hazards, particularly for residents using walkers or canes. Facilities typically prefer low-profile, non-slip mats or discourage floor coverings altogether for safety reasons.
Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications
Nursing home facilities have strict protocols regarding medication administration to ensure residents receive the correct dosage at the right time. Self-administration of medication is typically not permitted.
Keeping Personal Medication: Do not bring any personal stash of prescription or over-the-counter medications, including vitamins and supplements, unless specifically instructed by the facility. All resident medications are logged, stored securely, and dispensed by qualified nursing staff. This process prevents dosing errors and accidental sharing.
Prohibited Items Comparison Table
| Category | Prohibited Item | Reason for Restriction | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial | Large sums of cash, credit cards | Risk of theft or mismanagement | Small allowance in community account |
| Safety | Flammable liquids, aerosol cans | Fire hazard in communal setting | Facility-provided cleaning products |
| Electrical | Space heaters, extension cords | Fire and tripping hazards | Facility-regulated heating, facility-safe power strips |
| Sharp Objects | Razors, personal knives, sharp craft items | Risk of injury to residents or staff | Staff-supervised use, safety razors |
| Valuables | Expensive jewelry, heirlooms | High risk of theft or damage | Inexpensive, replaceable costume jewelry |
Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Comfort
Moving into a nursing home is a significant life change that requires careful planning. By understanding what not to bring to a nursing home, you can proactively address potential safety concerns, minimize the risk of loss, and ensure a smoother transition for your loved one. Always consult with the specific facility's administration for a complete list of their prohibited items, as policies can vary. Focus on bringing items that provide comfort and familiarity without compromising safety or space. The goal is to create a secure and welcoming environment where your loved one can thrive. For more information on the moving process and what to pack, the National Institute on Aging offers helpful resources and checklists for choosing a long-term care facility and preparing for a stay(https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/assisted-living-and-nursing-homes/how-choose-nursing-home-or-other-long-term-care-facility).
