Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 84 NASOGASTRIC STABILIZATION PURPOSE: Nasogastric tubes are stabilized to prevent erosion of the skin around the tube, tube migration or removal. The nurse will teach the patient/caregiver to alternate the sites of taping, evaluate skin tolerance to techniques and avoid direct pressure of tubing against skin or mucous membranes. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL: RN, LPN EQUIPMENT: • Tape • Washcloth • Scissors • Towel • Water • Soap GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS: 1. I n the home setting, nasogastric feedings are utilized for short term management of nutritional needs or for long term management of patients in whom gastric or jejunostomy tubes are contraindicated. 2. Displacement or removal can occur with traction on or loosening of the tape. Migration or kinking can occur during reanchoring or with vigorous coughing, gagging or emesis. PATIENT AND FAMILY EDUCATION: Educate the patient and caregivers of the purpose, the method used to anchor tube and the need to keep the nursing staff informed of problems with the tube or anchoring. PROCEDURE: 1. Wash hands. Gather equipment. 2. Remove old tape. Wash and dry area thoroughly while stabilizing tube. 3. Cut a one (1) inch piece of tape. 4. Split tape about 1 inch lengthwise from one end. 5. Attach unsplit end to patient's nose, then wrap split ends in opposite direction around tube. If necessary, secure tube to patient's cheek or forehead. 6. Wash hands. Store equipment. DOCUMENTATION: Document education regarding procedure, patient tolerance and patient/caregiver response to education on Clinical Visit Note.