Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. CLEANSING ENEMA Purpose: 1. To stimulate peristaltic action 2. To help promote evacuation 3. Preparation for diagnostic tests Equipment: 1. Disposable irrigation set 2. Bath thermometer 3. Lubricant 4. Tissue 5. Solution, as order 6. Rubber sheet for bed 7. Bath blanket or drape for patient Procedure: 1. Explain procedure to patient. 2. Assemble equipment and take to bedside. 3. Screen and drape patient. 4. Have patient turn on left side. 5. Place bedpan at foot of bed. 6. Expel air from tubing by allowing small amount of solution to flow through tubing into bedpan. 7. Clamp off tubing. Lubricate end of tube and insert approximately four inches into rectum. 8. Allow solution to run slowly. Hold can no higher than 18 inches above buttocks. 9. When solution is depleted, withdraw tube, wrap end in tissue, and replace in basin. 10. Allow patient to retain solution for 5 minutes, if possible, then offer bedpan. 11. Place patient on bedpan. Elevate head of bed, unless contraindicated. 12. Place toilet tissue and signal cord within easy reach. 13. Remove equipment from unit and clean equipment. 14. When patient signals, return to room and empty bedpan. 15. Encourage patient to wash hands thoroughly and open windows to air room. 16. Remove top protective rubber mattress cover, reposition patient, and leave comfortable. Make sure unit is clean and tidy. REPORT: Color and consistency of bowel movement, amount of movement, and any unusual symptoms or discharge. Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-19