OSE_1306_part2_Layout 1 6/3/13 3:40 PM Page 40
P A T I E N T
P O S I T I O N I N G
4. Assess,
document
and educate
PROPER ASSESSMENT Thoroughly check the condition of
patients' skin in pre-op, after positioning them for surgery and,
finally, in PACU.
AORN guidelines
suggest you position patients in
collaboration
with anesthesia
providers and
surgeons.
Regularly review
policies and procedures pertaining to patient
positioning,
assign a clinical
manager to monitor staff performance, provide
yearly staff training on skin injury
prevention and
conduct periodic
competency test-
ing.
In the OR, document the patient's skin condition, the position or
positions the patient is placed in and the positioning aids used. Also
be sure to note when patients present for surgery with pre-existing
pressure ulcers or skin injuries to prove they didn't happen on your
watch. (You may also be able to get paid for treating them.)
4 0
O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | J U N E 2013
