Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. BACK RUB Purpose: A back rub stimulates the blood circulation which increases the blood supply. A person who must remain in bed most of the day has little opportunity to move about and keep his blood circulating freely through the body. Pressure tends to build up in the area where the body weight is placed. In the care of the bed-ridden patient, this pressure obviously is horizontally when he lies down. The back rub helps protect the skin. The rubbing action aids in stimulating the circulation of the blood, and this helps the skin to stand the pressure of the bed without becoming sore, pressure from the bed against the body can be highly irritating, particularly when the patient is unable to change his position easily. Equipment: 1. Alcohol or solution of back rub as designated 2. Basin with warm water to remove chill from solution 3. Towel Procedure: 1 . Place towel lengthwise after having patient turn on side. Pour solution on palms of hands and spread it on well, over both hands before rubbing on patient's back. Pressing with the palms of hands begin at the sacrum (point just before the buttocks) and work up slowly to the neck. Include massaging of buttocks, back and shoulders. 2. Dry the back thoroughly with a towel. Blot dry rather than rub. Apply talcum powder if desired and smooth on. DO NOT SHAKE TALCUM ON PATIENT. 3. Straighten bedding. Remove equipment, put back in place and leave patient comfortable. Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-67