Do not blindly follow orders; practice with a questioning attitude Quote from Scrubs, the TV show Nurse (to doctor): “Doug wanted me to give him 500,000 mg of morphine… I thought I’d check with you first before I killed a man.” Doctors and ordering providers may order or write for the incorrect thing when they […]

You must check their appropriate ID before doing anything Medications: check name, birthday, and so forth Check patient’s armband (or other identifying device) if patient is unable to speak Many facilities require scanning the armband before giving any medications Always communicate important patient identifiers when delegating care as well Make sure you provide name, room […]

Can I be honest? I had an amazing experience last month.   It was one of those moments when you are filled with thousands of emotions ranging from happiness to sadness all at the same time.  Have you ever felt that before? [ctt title=”You never know the reach you will have as a nurse.” tweet=”You […]

If a patient is confused, impulsive, forgetful, or agitated, make sure they have a room close to the nurse’s station Do not put these patients at the end of the hall, where it’s harder to hear them if they call out (maybe they can’t figure out how to use the call bell, forget about how […]

Many disease processes can put patients at an increased risk for seizures Brain injury or trauma Drugs, medication Withdrawing from alcohol or other drugs Fevers History seizure activity See this list from John Hopkins about various causes of seizures Patients can experience a seizure with little to no warning Must provide a safe environment should […]

Change positions Pillow support Active and passive range of motion Routine stretching of the shoulders, neck, arms, hands, fingers

Falls: initiate fall risk care plan if appropriate, make sure patient is safe to ambulate, initiate all fall precautions Electrical hazards Unsafe behavior from other patients or visitors

Call lights  Adaptive call lights can be used for patients with poor dexterity Phones, or other technology

Really important, especially with first time parents Can be easily done incorrectly, not as straightforward as some anticipate Some facilities may have it as part of policy to make sure family knows how to properly use before leaving

(This does not include medications) At home oxygen and supplies, CPAP’s, assistive devices, drains, tubes, and so forth. Make sure assistive devices are sized appropriately Crutches not too tall, walker not to short, and so forth Make sure they know how to use assistive devices Make sure they know who to call if they have […]