Notes
- Confirm that the order (if needed) is in Pt’s chart and ensure that a signed consent is present (if required).
- Review medical record for allergies and conditions that may influence Pt’s ability to tolerate procedure.
- Observe the “6 Rights of Medication Administration” when giving medications, and triple-check all medication orders.
- Gather and assemble necessary supplies, and obtain assistance from additional staff as needed.
- Perform hand hygiene before contact with Pt, before and after putting on gloves, and before exiting Pt’s room.
- Use standard precautions during every Pt contact.
- Prepare the Pt; explain the procedure and offer reassurance.
- Identify the Pt; use a minimum of 2 identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth) and compare against information on Pt’s chart and ID band. Use verbal confirmation when possible.
- Ensure there is proper lighting (rooms are often dark).
- Adjust bed height (usually to level of your elbows) and lower nearest side rail to facilitate proper body mechanics.
- Provide comfort and maintain privacy, exposing only what is minimally necessary to perform procedure.