Admitting a Patient to Nursing Unit

Admitting a Patient to Nursing Unit

Equipment:

1. Identifying wristband.
2. Chart.
3. Nursing admission database.
4. Thermometer.
5. BP cuff.
6. Stethoscope.
7. Scales.
8. Patient gown.
9. Admission pack (bath basin, pitcher, soap, comb, toothbrush, etc.). 

Key Points:

1. Introduce yourself, assist the patient into a hospital gown, weigh, assist him into the bed.
2. Be Smart! Allow extra time if patient is an older adult.
3. Be Smart! Validate patient identity.
4. Obtain a translator, if needed.
5. Complete the nursing assessment, including VS; validate the admission list of medications.

Provide information on:

• Room.
• Equipment.
• Routines.
• Nurse call system.
• Advance directives.
• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
• Answer any questions and provide printed information.
• Complete nursing admission forms according to agency policy.
• Complete or ensure that admission orders have been completed.

    6.   Inventory the patient belongings; send home or lock up valuables.
    7.   Finish the admission process: Ensure patient comfort (water, positioning, pain).
    8.   Be Safe! Make one last safety check: call light, bed position, siderails; and ask: “Is there anything else           I can do for you?”
    9.   Be Safe! Post “special needs” alerts for other caregivers (e.g., NPO, I&O).


Documentation:

1. Complete the admission database and nursing notes as needed.