Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. WEIGHT PATIENT PURPOSE · To measure weight gain or loss · To assess fluid status or edema · To evaluate compliance with diet and medication regimen RELATED PROCEDURES · Edema · Intake and Output (I/0) EQUIPMENT 1. Scale (preferably patient’s scale) PROCEDURE 1. Explain the procedure to the patient/caregiver. 2. Use the same scale on the same flooring or rug each time the patient is weighed. 3. Weigh the patient as follows: a. Have the patient center his or her feet on the scale and stand erect. b. If it is possible, weigh the patient with the same amount of clothing on and at the same time of day each visit. 1. Read the patient’s weight indicated on the scale. 2. Provide patient comfort measures. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Notify the patient’s physician of a 3- to 4-pound weight gain in 1 week. DOCUMENTATION GUIDELINES Document the patient’s weight, and evaluate his or her fluid status on the visit report in relation to the disease process, diet, medication regimen, and intake and output. Document physician notification of inappropriate weight gain or signs of respiratory distress, as appropriate. Update the plan of care. L-50 Home Health Agency Client Assessments