Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 117 STORAGE OF SOLUTIONS LEFT IN THE HOME AND STORED IN THE AGENCY PURPOSE: To Stablish guideline for Home or Agency Storage of Solutions • To prevent contamination of irrigation solutions • To prevent infection • To promote self-care in the home RELATED PROCEDURE • Solutions for Irrigation: Sterile Normal Saline, Dakins’, and Acetic Acid POLICY : All bactericidal and non-bactericidal solutions left in the patient's home, should be dated when initially opened. Non-bactericidal solutions like normal saline are to be discarded within 7 days of opening. However, single use containers of normal saline or sterile water should be discarded after each use. Bactericidal solutions like betadine can be kept to the expiration date printed on the container. Bacterial Solutions, and all other medical supplies stored in the Agency’s Supply Cabinet, must be checked for expiration date at least monthly, and discard any expired ones. PROCEDURE 1. Discard irrigation solutions within 1 week after they are opened. 2. Single use containers of normal saline or sterile water should be discarded after each use. 3. Discard any irrigation solution that is discolored, has particulate matter in it, or has a foul odor. 4. Store solutions in a cool place away from direct sunlight, thereby retarding the growth of many infectious germs.