Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. INSERTION OF LEVINE TUBE (when we provide staffing to an in-patient facility) Purpose: 1. To allow for evacuation for unwanted stomach contents. 2. To allow for feeding and medicating patients who cannot swallow Equipment: 1. Levine tube (kept in central supply closet) 2. Emesis basin with ice 3. Lubricant 4. Tissue 5. Glass of water 6. Straw 7. Tape 8. Syringe 9. Stethoscope Procedure: NOTE: PLACE LEVINE TUBE IN BASIN WITH ICE FOR 20 MINUTES BEFORE DOCTOR'S ARRIVAL. 1. Assemble equipment and bring to bedside. 2. Explain procedure and screen patient. 3. Elevate head of bed to sitting position if not contraindicated. 4. Assist physician in passing tube. NOTE: ENCOURAGE PATIENT TO TAKE SIPS OF WATER THROUGH STRAW. REASSURE PATIENT AT ALL TIMES. 5. Once tube is in place, offer syringe and/or stethoscope for doctor to cheek placement. 6. Prepare tape and assist doctor in securing tube. 7. Lower head of bed to comfortable position. If Levine tube is to remain in place, secure with pin as with Foley catheter. 8. Cap end of tube. 9. Unscreen patient and remove equipment. 10. Clean equipment and return to proper place. Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-27