Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 20 BLOOD GLUCOSE TESTING PURPOSE: The monitoring of blood glucose levels will be done in accordance with the physician’s plan of care. Results of the testing will be recorded in the patient's medical record. Results will be forwarded to the physician in a timely manner. When needed calibration of the machine will be done in accordance with MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. clinical policy. Patient’s and family members will be responsible for individual glucometer machines. AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL: RN, LPN EQUIPMENT: Blood glucose monitor, glucometer testing strips, alcohol wipes, lancet, disposable gloves, cotton balls, bandaid, sharps container. PROCEDURE: 1. Wash hands. 2. Explain procedure to patient. 3. Put on disposable gloves. 4. Clean patient's finger with alcohol swab. 5. Obtain appropriate test strip. 6. Turn on machine, per manufacturer's directions. 7. Extend patient's hand down by the side for 10-30 seconds to increase blood flow. Patient may wash hands under warm water to increase blood flow. 8. Instruct patient that there will be a stick. 9. Squeeze until large droplet is on fingertip. 10. Touch blood to strip, test in accordance with manufacturer’s directions and record results. 11. Report abnormal blood sugar levels to physician in a timely manner. 11. Instruct the patient or caregiver in adopting a method for recording results, when to notify physician and interventions for abnormal results. 12. Instruct the client and family in upper and lower limits for blood sugars that should be reported to the physician. 16. Instruct the patient or caregiver in calibration and maintenance (per manufacturer’s directions) as needed. 17. Encourage the patient or caregiver to assume responsibility for testing. Allow time for return demonstrations. Encourage questions. DOCUMENTATION: Record in the patient's clinical record results of blood glucose testing and any patient or caregiver teaching. If further action is indicated, document follow-up/notification of supervisor and /or physician.