Question 1: Identify three common hazards that could be present in a care home environment. For each hazard, suggest a method to minimise the risk.

Answer: Hazards: Wet floors, electrical equipment, and uneven flooring. Methods: Use warning signs and slip-resistant mats for wet floors; regular checks and PAT testing for electrical equipment; repair or replace uneven flooring.

Question 2: Explain why it is important to conduct risk assessments in health and social care settings. Include two benefits of regular risk assessments.

Answer: Risk assessments help identify potential hazards to prevent harm, ensuring safety for service users and staff. Benefits include reducing accidents and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Question 3: Describe a procedure that staff should follow if a service user has a fall. Include at least three steps.

Answer: Staff should check the service user for injuries, reassure them and avoid moving them unless necessary, call for medical assistance if needed, and record the incident in the accident book.

Question 4: List four safety features that should be included in the design of a healthcare facility to protect service users.

Answer: Features include handrails in corridors, non-slip flooring, clearly marked emergency exits, and adequate lighting.

Question 5: Explain the purpose of fire safety procedures in health and social care settings. Mention two key components of these procedures.

Answer: Fire safety procedures aim to protect everyone from fire hazards and ensure quick evacuation. Key components include fire drills and clearly marked fire exits.

Question 6: Describe the steps a care worker should take to ensure medication safety when administering medicines to service users.

Answer: Verify the prescription, check the medication label against the prescription, follow the 'Five Rights' (right person, right drug, right dose, right time, right route), and document administration.

Question 7: Sketch a simple floor plan of a safety zone within a care home, including at least three safety features or equipment.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a designated safety zone with features such as a fire extinguisher, emergency alarm, and clear unobstructed pathways.

Question 8: Explain why it is important to keep emergency exits clear and unobstructed at all times.

Answer: Obstructed emergency exits can delay evacuation during an emergency, increasing the risk of injury or fatality.

Question 9: Identify two types of personal protective equipment (PPE) used in health and social care and state when each should be used.

Answer: Gloves should be used when handling bodily fluids or contaminated items; aprons are used during activities that may cause clothing to become soiled or contaminated.