Isolation Precautions

Melissa has posted educational posters about our 3 West Isolation Precautions/Procedures in the education room and the staff restroom. Here's what you need to know!

• Proper Identification of the Pt: Do they have a hx of MRSA/VRE? Is there Gram + cocci (GPCs) in clusters reported from the lab? Notify Infection Prevention @ ext. 2336 when pt identified.
• Proper Room Set Up: Equipment tag In Use, tape the nurse server closed (but use the linen bag as usual). Make sure there is disposable equipment in the room such as a thermometer, stethoscope, and BP cuff.
• Proper Education: Provide pt, family, and visitors with written information (found in Meditech under policies -> infection prevention, available in English and Spanish). Remind other staff (transporters, PT, OT, RT, etc.) as needed. Remind physicians of standards if you notice them not adhering to them (like taking the chart in the room).
• Proper Attire: Use shoe covers as needed. Make sure the isolation cart is well-stocked. Use MAR paper covers.
• Proper Discharge Procedure: Dispose of everything, strip bed linens, leave isolation signs on the door for EVS. Restock the isolation cart for the next pt.
• For all equipment like Dash monitors, walkers, O2 tanks, etc., clean with Tergo wipes (or spray/blue microfiber cloths for C. diff) between pt use.
  

Melissa is putting together a "tool box" to place on the nurse server for things that are usually accessed in the nurse server drawers. It will be minimally stocked with the basics like alcohol wipes and tele stickers, since most things will need to be disposed at discharge.