Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. POLICY AND PROCEDURE HURRICANE/TORNADO WARNINGS When a patient is under the care of this agency in the his/her own home, and if the home situation is such that there are other responsible relatives in the household, the same general protection and precautions taken by members of that household shall apply to the patient. Our staff shall advise the members of the household to stockpile a "hurricane cupboard" with food and supplies in readiness for a hurricane. In a situation where a patient is alone in a house, a "hurricane cupboard" shall likewise be kept (with food and supplies). In addition, our staff members shall make prearrangement to have the patient registered with the nearest Red Cross center or other similar center which caters for the elderly and in the even of a hurricane, the patient shall be transported by our County Transportation Services to the designated shelter, previously arranged by our staff member, and/or Patient, and/or Patient’s family member, and/or Patient’s Physician. HURRICANE PROCEDURE When a hurricane is approaching, procrastination and indecision can be hazardous. It is essential that plans be made in advance. If the County Office of Emergency calls for the evacuation of any area, it must be done immediately. 1. HURRICANE PREPARATION CHECKLIST a.Battery operated radio b.Flashlights and bulbs c.Extra batteries d.Emergency cooking facilities e.Lantern, fuel and candles f.Matches and can opener g.Canned food h.Extra medications, specially diabetic patient on insulin. Advise patient to purchase extra insulin and syringes. Patients should purchase extra cardiac medication such as Nitro Glycerine for emergency use. The registered nurse will provide extra surgical supplies, such as material for changing dressing, N.G. tub or Foley supplies, etc., if required. i.First - aid kit j.Boarding or tape for windows k.Bleach I.Fire extinguisher m.Car should be full of gas prior to storm n.Emergency evacuation plan 2. PLAN A COURSE OF ACTION EITHER a.Relocate outside of the area b.Stay with local friends and relatives c.Stay home d.Go to a Red Cross shelter (Pets are not allowed in shelters). Home Health Agency Policies A-69