Electronic cigarettes are being used more frequently by residents in skilled nursing facilities. Below are some reminders on regulations and safety concerns related to e-cigarettes in facilities.
Appendix PP states, e-cigarettes do not pose the same dangers of ignition as regular cigarettes. However, they are not without risk. Some risks associated with e-cigarettes include:
- Potential health risks to the smoker
- Second-hand aerosol exposure
- Nicotine overdose
- Explosion or fire caused by the battery
Facilities are responsible for overseeing the use and storage of these devices to maintain an accident-free environment. Some tips to keep your residents safe include:
- Assess residents for safety prior to allowing them to use the device
- Consider keeping devices at the nurses’ station, like securing residents’ cigarettes
- Keep loose batteries in a case to prevent contact with metal objects
- Never charge a vape device with a phone or tablet charger, only use the appropriate charging equipment
- Only charge devices during the daytime hours
- Replace the batteries if they get damaged or wet