What should you NOT do when a resident is about to fall?

When a resident is about to fall, attempting to hold them up can pose significant risks both to the resident and to the caregiver. If you try to prevent the fall by holding the resident, there's a high likelihood of losing your own balance, which can lead to both of you falling and potentially resulting in injuries.

Instead, easing the resident to the floor is a safer approach. This action allows for controlled descent, minimizing impact and reducing the chance of injury. Calling for a nurse's assistance is also important, as it ensures that professional help is on the way for further assessment and care. Controlling the direction of the fall can help guide the resident away from hazards, but the focus should primarily be on safely managing the fall rather than attempting to keep them upright. Therefore, trying to hold up a resident can compromise safety, making it clear why this approach is not advisable.