Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene is the cornerstone of infection control. Nurses must perform proper hand hygiene before and after any patient care activity. This involves using an alcohol-based hand rub or washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Hand hygiene prevents the spread of infections and protects both the patient and the healthcare provider.Vital Signs Monitoring
Monitoring vital signs is a fundamental nursing activity. This includes measuring temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure. Accurate measurement and documentation are crucial for assessing a patient’s condition and detecting any changes early. Ensure the correct technique for each measurement and consistently record the data in the patient's chart.Medication Administration
Administering medication safely is vital. Follow the "five rights" of medication administration: the right patient, the right drug, the right dose, the right route, and the right time. Always double-check the medication order, verify patient identification, and document the administration promptly. Be aware of potential side effects and adverse reactions.Patient Assessment
A comprehensive patient assessment is essential for creating an effective care plan. This involves taking a detailed health history, performing a physical examination, and evaluating the patient's mental and emotional status. Use standardized assessment tools and techniques to gather accurate information and involve the patient in the process.Wound Care
Proper wound care promotes healing and prevents infection. Clean the wound with an appropriate solution, apply the prescribed dressing, and monitor for signs of infection. Document the wound's characteristics, including size, depth, and exudate. Educate the patient on wound care and the importance of keeping the wound clean and dry.Intravenous Therapy
Intravenous (IV) therapy involves administering fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a vein. Ensure correct IV catheter insertion technique, secure the catheter properly, and monitor the IV site for signs of infection or infiltration. Maintain accurate records of the fluids and medications administered, and assess the patient's response to the therapy.Patient Education
Educating patients about their health condition, treatments, and medications is a critical nursing responsibility. Use clear, simple language and provide written materials when necessary. Encourage patients to ask questions and involve them in decision-making. Effective education empowers patients to manage their health and adhere to their treatment plans.Documentation
Accurate and thorough documentation is essential for effective communication among healthcare providers and legal protection. Record all patient interactions, assessments, interventions, and outcomes. Use standardized terminology and avoid abbreviations that could be misinterpreted. Documentation should be timely, objective, and reflective of the patient’s condition.Pain Management
Managing pain effectively is a key component of patient care. Assess the patient's pain using a pain scale and inquire about the pain's characteristics, such as location, intensity, and duration. Administer prescribed pain medications and employ non-pharmacological interventions, such as relaxation techniques or heat/cold therapy. Evaluate the effectiveness of pain management strategies and adjust the care plan as needed.Infection Control
Infection control practices are crucial in preventing the spread of infections. Follow standard precautions, such as using personal protective equipment (PPE), proper hand hygiene, and safe injection practices. Implement isolation protocols when necessary and educate patients and visitors on infection control measures.Communication
Effective communication is vital in nursing. Communicate clearly and empathetically with patients, families, and healthcare team members. Use active listening skills and provide information in a way that is understandable to the patient. Good communication fosters trust, improves patient outcomes, and enhances teamwork.Emergency Procedures
Nurses must be prepared to respond to emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the facility's emergency protocols, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and the management of acute medical conditions. Regularly participate in emergency drills and continuing education to maintain proficiency in emergency response.
