furniture, waste cans, and other po

furniture, waste cans, and other potential
hazards are out of the way.
O: Does your patient have oxygen ordered?
If so, check the wall to ensure the ordered
fl ow rate is set appropriately. Also, check to
see if the patient is wearing the cannula or
mask; often, patients will remove their oxy-
gen to ambulate or eat and subsequently
forget to replace it. Monitor for signs of
inadequate oxygenation.
W: Is there a waste collection container
that should be emptied before you leave?
It’s unsettling for the patient to have to
use an already full collection container; in
addition, accumulated waste products
tend to create an unpleasant odor in the
room. Does your patient have a urinary
catheter or fecal management system? If
so, is it draining correctly, and how full is
the bag? Is the patient incontinent? If so,
make sure to check for an “accident”
before you leave.
N: Ask the patient: “Is there anything else
I can do for you before I leave?” This
addresses his or her needs. Does your
patient have a way to reach you after you
leave? Where’s the call light? Does your
patient know how to use it?
By implementing these extra steps during
rounds, you’ll be able to troubleshoot issues
before they occur. ■