Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 59 HOT WATER BOTTLE PURPOSE: A hot water bottle is applied in accordance with the physician's Plan of Care to relieve pain, provide comfort, warmth and relaxation. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL: All staff EQUIPMENT: Hot water bottle with cover, pillowcase or soft towel SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Assessment of the area of treatment is necessary for the presence of conditions which might contraindicate use of heat. Particular attention must also be made to the capacity of the patient or caregiver to recognize when an injury is occurring so that the treatment can be interrupted. Confused, mentally impaired patients should never be left unattended with a hot water bottle . PROCEDURE: 1. Explain procedure to patient. 2. Fill hot water bottle approximately ½ full with warm water. Test by pouring over wrist. 3. Dry top and neck of bottle. Check bottle for leaks. 4. Cover bottle with cloth wrapping (i.e., cover, towel, pillowcase). 5. Screen patient and examine area of application. 6. Position bottle over treatment area. 7. Instruct caregiver to check skin area and bottle every 30 minutes. 8. Instruct caregiver to refill to retain heat. DOCUMENTATION: Document on the Clinical Visit Note that a hot water bottle was applied. Include a description of area to which it was applied and any other special considerations. Document any teaching performed and the response of the patient or caregivers to the teaching.