Teachable Moment in the News

When someone takes a fall, no matter how trivial it may seem, DO NOT TOUCH the person until they can methodically check themselves for any injury. That goes double for an elderly person, no matter who it is (even the President!). Giving in to the natural urge to shortcut the evaluation by prematurely pulling a person to their feet can exacerbate an injury such as a broken bone. Wait to see if they can get up on their own, and physically guard them--by force if necessary--from well-meaning but untrained folks rushing to "help." If necessary, call EMS and let trained personnel take over.