Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. APPLICATION OF COLD SPONGES Purpose: Alcohol sponges are ordered by the doctor in order to reduce the body temperature of a patient. Equipment: 1. Full length plastic mattress cover 2. Cotton blanket or sheet 3. Package of ABDs or hand towels 4. Bath basin 5. 70% Alcohol, ice and tap water 6. Bath towel 7. Rectal thermometer and lubricant 8. Pad and pencil Procedure: 1. Assemble equipment at bedside and explain procedures screen patient. 2. Protect bed with plastic mattress cover. 3. Put ice in basin, fill basin as ordered. 4. Remove top covers, replace with bath towel. 5. Wring out sponges and apply to axillary, groin, back of neck and back of knees. Then cover entire body. 6. Re-apply as needed when sponges become warm. 7. Continue procedure, taking temperature every 15 minutes, until directed to stop. 8. Change bed as needed and make patient comfortable. 9. Remove equipment, clean and return to proper area. REPORT: 1. Time of procedure 2. Patient's temperature 3. Unusual change in patient Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-56