This alert follows an incident in NSW where a person receiving personal care from a disability services provider suffered severe burns (scalds) while being bathed and subsequently died from their injuries.
Key points:
Providers must ensure there is clear oversight of staff, and that they receive appropriate education and training to safely provide personal care, such as bathing and/or showering.
Those providing direct care need to:
• always check the water temperature
• know the immediate response required to treat a scald/burn
• apply immediate and appropriate first aid treatment
• understand when to seek medical attention and/or seek emergency treatment.
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