Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 113 SITZ BATH PURPOSE: Sitz baths are given with specific physician's order to relieve discomfort of the perianal area and to promote wound healing by cleansing increasing circulation and reducing inflammation and to relax local muscles. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL: RN, LPN, HHA (with documented teaching and proficiency as allowed by state law) EQUIPMENT: Sitz bath unit, towel, chair, light robe PROCEDURE: 1. Explain procedure to patient. 2. Wash your hands thoroughly. 3. Prepare sitz unit for use according to manufacturer’s directions. 4. Raise toilet seat. Place unit in the toilet. Add warm water to sitz unit until 2/3 full. 5. With tubing closed, fill the plastic bag with warm water. 6. Place bag above the level of the toilet bowl. 7. Escort the patient to bathroom. 8. Remove any soiled dressing and discard. Dressings which have become encrusted may be soaked off. Seat patient. 9. Place a small stool under the seat of anyone whose feet do not touch the floor. 10. Support the patients back with a small pillow or towel as needed for comfort. 11. Drape the patient’s shoulder and knees with a light blanket or robe if desired. 12. Open clamp. Encourage patient to regulate flow. Duration of the bath is usually 15-20 minutes. 13. Check the patient frequently while providing for privacy. 14. Assist patient to a standing position while providing for privacy. 15. Redress wound if indicated. 16. Clean and store equipment. 17. Wash hands. DOCUMENTATION: Document the procedure, the time, the patient's tolerance and the condition of affected tissue on the Clinical Visit Note. If further action is indicated, document follow-up/notification of Clinical Manager and/or physician.