Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. POSITIONING Purpose: Patients are often put into special position for treatments. The aide should know how to direct the patient to assume the position and adjust the draping so that the treatment is not hampered and yet the patient is not unnecessarily exposed. Procedure: Horizontal Recumbent Position 1. Explain procedure to patient and screen. 2. Lower bed rests. 3. Place patient flat on back with one pillow under head, arms at sides, legs extended and together. Cover with sheet. 4. The horizontal recumbent position is used for physical examinations and for a patient who has expired. Sims Position: NOTE: Sims position is used for rectal examinations, enemas, etc., 1. Turn patient on left side with right knee flexed across left. 2. Left leg straight. 3. Both arms placed in front of body. 4. Chest inclined forward. 5. Buttocks near edge of bed. 6. Keep patient covered. Fowler's Position: NOTE: Fowler's Position is used to promote drainage, make it easier for patient to breathe, and to increase comfort during convalescence. It is a semi-sitting position. 1. Elevate head to: 40 degree angle - Fowler's 25 degree angle - Semi Fowler's 2. Put a pillow or footboard at the foot of the bed as a brace for the patient's feet. Coma Position: NOTE: Patient is usually unconscious; do not use pillow under head. 1. Place patient on abdomen with head turned to side. 2. When face is turned to left, left arm is flexed in front of body and left knee is flexed, right arm at side and right leg straight. 3. When face is turned to right, right arm is flexed in -front of body and right knee flexed, left arm at side and left leg straight. Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-48