Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. ASSISTING PATIENT INTO AND OUT OF WHEELCHAIR Purpose: The advantage of using a wheelchair instead of an ordinary chair is that a wheelchair is adjustable and can be easily moved. It is important for the attendant to understand the mechanism of the different types of wheelchairs so as to insure the safety and comfort of patient. Equipment: 1 . Wheelchair 2. Sheet 3. Pillows 4. Bathrobe 5. Slippers Procedure: 1 . Explain procedure to patient and bring wheelchair to bedside. 2. Lower, leg rests on wheelchair. 3. Fold foot rests back, out of way. 4. Adjust back rest. 5. Place sheet over chair with top edges several inches above back. 6. Arrange pillows as desired. Any pillows used on the seat of the chair should have a plastic cover. 7. Place wheelchair parallel with bed and with back of chair in line with foot of bed. 8. Lock wheels. 9. Assist patient to sitting position; bring legs off side of bed. 10. Help patient into bathrobe and slippers. 11. Stand facing patient. 12. Place hands under patient's arms supporting him. 13. Help patient to slide off edge of bed to standing position. Guard against safety hazards such as slippery floors. 14. Stand with feet apart, and while holding patient, pivot toward wheelchair. If patient is heavy or helpless, get assistance. 15. Brace chair with one hand; an assistant may be used to hold chair steady and secure. 16. Lower patient into chair. 17. Adjust leg rests. 18. Adjust pillows and back rest for comfort. 19. Fold sides of sheet over patient's legs and lap. 20. Provide patient with some means of call. Watch for signs of fatigue. 21. Returning patient to bed, reverse above procedure. Methods of reporting: 1. Length of time in chair 2. Any ill effects Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-51