Maintaining the safety of yourself and your clients while in the pool is imperative. This page lists safety guidelines to keep in mind and to implement on the pool deck and in the pool.
Ensure you are aware of the lists of precautions/contraindications for aquatic therapy
Do NOT get your client into the pool if there is a change in health status which does not allow them to participate
Most pools have a maintenance team responsible for pool chemicals and water temperature. The pool should be 92 degrees F or as close to that as possible. If you suspect that something is off or wrong with the pool chemicals/temperature, contact an appropriate authority.
Always consider your client’s type of injury, if they had surgery, etc. Review their prior medical history!
All clients must be supervised by a therapist or licensed practitioner while in the pool at all times (best practice is to always be in the water with your client).
In case of an emergency, know how to get immediate help. Most pools have an emergency button somewhere in or near the pool to push if there is an emergency.
All clients must be medically cleared prior to participating in aquatic therapy
Clients should be advised to toilet before getting into the pool. If your client is on a toileting schedule or bowel program, this is especially important.
Ensure all clients are able to enter/exit the pool safely. All pools must have a chair lift available for individuals requiring its use. Using clinical judgment, assess whether or not your client needs your assistance to enter/exit. In addition to the chair lift, clients may also enter/exit the pool via stairs or by using a ramp with a railing. Clients should never jump into the pool.
If your client uses an assistive device for functional mobility, ensure it is out of the way on the pool deck at all times. They can place it close to the railing by the ramp or stairs, up against the wall, etc. An assistive device not placed in the appropriate area could result in a fall or injury.
No running on the pool deck at all times! Instruct all clients to walk slowly to prevent falls and injuries.
Clients prone to skin breakdown should be advised to wear water shoes while in the pool.
Have the appropriate equipment needed to take vitals nearby, if necessary (if your patient has unstable blood pressure, lower vital capacity, has a cardiac or pulmonary condition, etc.).
Ensure clients are aware of all depth changes in the pool