LTC RISK IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
A quick‑reference guide to the most common risk areas in long‑term care and the standards required to prevent harm.
This guide outlines the major clinical risks in long‑term care settings and the interventions required to mitigate them. Use it to identify breach indicators, evaluate facility compliance, and strengthen case theory.
FALL RISK
✔ Required Assessments
• Fall risk assessment on admission
• Reassessment after any change in condition
✔ Required Interventions
• Bed/chair alarms
• Non‑skid footwear
• Supervision
• Environmental safety checks
Red Flags
• No documented fall risk assessment
• Alarms not used or ignored
• Unwitnessed falls
PRESSURE INJURY RISK
✔ Required Assessments
• Braden Scale
• Skin checks each shift
✔ Required Interventions
• Repositioning
• Pressure‑relieving surfaces
• Moisture management
• Nutrition support
Red Flags
• New or worsening pressure injuries
• Missing repositioning documentation
INFECTION RISK
✔ Required Monitoring
• Vitals
• Urinary symptoms
• Respiratory changes
• Skin integrity
✔ Required Interventions
• Early physician notification
• Lab testing
• Hydration support
Red Flags
• Delayed recognition of infection
• Sepsis indicators missed
DEHYDRATION & MALNUTRITION RISK
✔ Required Monitoring
• Intake/output
• Weight trends
• Hydration status
✔ Required Interventions
• Fluid encouragement
• Dietitian involvement
• Supplements
Red Flags
• Weight loss
• Poor intake not addressed
MEDICATION RISK
✔ Required Monitoring
• Side effects
• Missed doses
• High‑risk medications
Red Flags
• Medication errors
• Delayed physician notification