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1-9. GENERAL PREPARATORY MEASURES FOR PROCEDURES PERFORMED OFF THE NURSING UNIT
Procedures vary from one hospital to another concerning nursing unit preparation of patients who are to be sent or escorted to clinics, laboratories, radiology, or operating rooms. These various departments set their own standing operating procedure in accordance with local directives and issue instructions to the nursing units. These instructions and the doctor's orders for the particular patient must be carried out carefully to ensure the best results for the patient. A few general rules to remember are:
a. Prepare the Patient Mentally. Tell the patient briefly what to expect and explain his role in the preparation. Mental preparation of the patient gives him emotional security and gains his confidence and cooperation.
CAUTION: Always verify with the nurse or doctor what information you may give to the patient.
b. Prepare the Patient Physically. Have the patient clean, properly dressed, and protected from exposure or drafts. Make sure that any specific preparation ordered has been accomplished, such as medication, rest for a required period, or restriction on food or liquids.
c. Have the Right Patient in the Right Place at the Right Time. If he is an ambulatory patient, give him specific directions on how to reach the clinic or laboratory. Transport an otherwise ambulatory patient who has received a sedative or other pretreatment medication in a
wheelchair or on a stretcher. The responsibility of nursing unit personnel accompanying the
patient ends only after the patient is placed in the care of the personnel who are to perform
the procedure.
d. Be Sure That Forms Are Signed. Ensure that SF 522 (Clinical Record--Authorization for Administration of Anesthesia and for Performance of Operations and Other Procedures), if required, is signed by the patient or the patient's sponsor and witnessed by a medical officer, nurse, or other suitable individual.
e. Send the Patient's Clinical Record and X-rays to the Off-Unit Examination Areas. Enclose the record in a sealed manila envelope to safeguard the contents. Check to see that the records are returned with the patient.
