Review the policy below and share your thoughts and suggestions on how we can make improvements by emailing info@nshsc.nshealth.ca or by completing an anonymous survey.
View policy in PDF format.
Policy
Every effort should be made to ensure the safety of HSNS clients and visitors. Clinical treatment materials are carefully selected and are guided by HSNS principles of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Selection of toys considers developmental appropriateness in collaboration with the client or family. All items (e.g., toys, equipment) must be able to be cleaned and disinfected in accordance with HSNS Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Standards, and those of our partners (e.g., NSH, IWK). It is recognized that some treatment materials and tools have associated risks.
Procedures
- Any and all material that could be a choking hazard to clients is secured and out of reach (e.g., paper clips, foam insert ear tips).
- Small game pieces or toys may only be used when closely supervised by staff.
- Caution is encouraged when toys with sound are used, due to potential for impact on hearing. Using toys on the lowest setting is recommended.
- Periodically, Health Canada issues alerts concerning older toys and equipment that pose a hazard to young children. Any staff who become aware of these alerts are asked to notify their manager. Management will communicate to all staff as appropriate.
- Mini Trampoline:
- Ask the child’s parent/caregiver if they are comfortable with using the trampoline despite the possibility of injury.
- Ask the parent/caregiver to participate in supervision of their child when jumping on the trampoline.
- This may include the parent/caregiver:
- Sitting or standing near the trampoline
- Holding the child’s hands at all times
- Ensuring the child jumps only on the trampoline/ensuring the child does NOT jump off the trampoline
Should a child become injured, an incident report should be completed.