Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. ASSISTING PATIENTS ONTO AND OFF STRETCHER Purpose: A stretcher is used to transport patients. It can also be used for position changes in bed patients. Equipment: 1. Stretcher 2.Sheet 3. Strap 4.Pillow Procedure: 1. Explain procedure to patient. 2. Cover rubber pad on stretcher with clean sheet. 3. Place pillow at head of stretcher. 4. Cover patient with sheet and fold top bedding back to foot of bed. 5. If patient can help himself- a: Bring stretcher parallel to one side of the bed. b: Hold the stretcher steady while the patient lifts himself onto it. Stand at the side and center of the stretcher against bed with your weight; if patient has an injured arm or leg, be sure to support affected part. Block bed so it will not move. 6. If patient is helpless: a: Method I 1. Get assistance; three or four persons win be needed. 2. Move patient to side of where stretcher will be placed. 3. Place stretcher parallel to bed. 4. Have one person stand at head of stretcher to support patient's head, neck and shoulders. 5. Have one person stand at center of stretcher and grasp lift sheet. Grasp lift sheet close to body in order to get more lifting power. 6. Have one person stand at other side of lift sheet. 7. Have one person stand at foot to support patient's legs and feet. 8. With everyone in position, lift and pun patient in unison onto stretcher. b: Method II 1. Place stretcher at right angle to bed, at foot of bed (head of stretcher near bed). Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-52