(3) What equipment, clean or sterile, must be provided when assisting with
the procedure and how to care for used equipment following the procedure.
(4) The role of the assistant in relation to that of the doctor, nurse, or
technician performing the test.
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
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.
MD0917
1-11