The policy works by using a red dot that is placed on the patients file or care plan, it tells the nurse what patients need extra assistance with their meals. When the time comes for the ward to be at Protected Meal Times, the nurse would ask if the patient is ready for their meal, they would ensure that they are sitting comfortably and correctly. By doing this, it gives the nurse the opportunity to communicate with the patient and to give them a choice in their care. If the patient needs to be fed, the nurse would sit beside them at eye level showing respect and treated them as an equal. The nurse would take care in ensuring that the food isn’t too hot as they could burn themselves. While the patient is getting assisted with their eating, the nurse will take care in what conversation they initiate as to let the patient eat in peace without the risk of choking. It is very important for the nurse to keep the patient hydrated and if the patient required it to give them a drink. An important rule that the nurse must follow is to ensure that the patient is not nil by mouth as this could compromise the patient if they are to have surgery or a procedure that requires them to fast. By following these steps the nurse is ensure that they are providing good communication skills and showing respect towards the patient. When the nurse is assisting the patient in eating they are still maintaining the patient’s dignity and
The policy works by using a red dot that is placed on the patients file or care plan, it tells the nurse what patients need extra assistance with their meals. When the time comes for the ward to be at Protected Meal Times, the nurse would ask if the patient is ready for their meal, they would ensure that they are sitting comfortably and correctly. By doing this, it gives the nurse the opportunity to communicate with the patient and to give them a choice in their care. If the patient needs to be fed, the nurse would sit beside them at eye level showing respect and treated them as an equal. The nurse would take care in ensuring that the food isn’t too hot as they could burn themselves. While the patient is getting assisted with their eating, the nurse will take care in what conversation they initiate as to let the patient eat in peace without the risk of choking. It is very important for the nurse to keep the patient hydrated and if the patient required it to give them a drink. An important rule that the nurse must follow is to ensure that the patient is not nil by mouth as this could compromise the patient if they are to have surgery or a procedure that requires them to fast. By following these steps the nurse is ensure that they are providing good communication skills and showing respect towards the patient. When the nurse is assisting the patient in eating they are still maintaining the patient’s dignity and