What is Bag Technique?
The bag technique is a method used by community health nurses to prevent the spread of infection when providing care in patients' homes. It involves using a specially prepared nursing bag to carry essential supplies and equipment.
Purpose of Bag Technique.
- To ensure that the nurse can safely and efficiently carry out home visits.
- To minimize the risk of spreading infections between patients and from the community to the nurse.
Steps in the Bag Technique:
1. Preparation Before the Visit:
- Clean the Bag: Ensure the nursing bag is clean and well-organized.
- Stock the Bag: Fill the bag with necessary supplies like gloves, hand sanitizer, dressings, bandages, stethoscope, and any other needed medical equipment.
2. During the Home Visit:
- Choose a Clean Area: When you arrive at the patient's home, find a clean, flat surface to place your bag. If possible, use a barrier like a clean towel or disposable pad to place under the bag.
- Sanitize Hands: Use hand sanitizer before and after touching the bag or patient.
- Open the Bag: Open the bag in a way that keeps the contents clean and organized.
- Take Out Supplies: Only take out the items you need for the specific visit. Avoid unnecessary handling of other supplies.
3. Performing Care:
- Wear Gloves: Wear gloves when performing any procedures that involve contact with bodily fluids.
- Use Disposable Items: Use disposable items whenever possible and discard them properly after use.
- Sanitize Equipment: Clean reusable equipment with disinfectant wipes before putting them back in the bag.
4. After the Home Visit:
- Dispose of Waste: Safely dispose of any used or contaminated items, following proper infection control protocols.
- Sanitize Hands Again: Clean your hands thoroughly with hand sanitizer after handling waste or touching the patient.
- Pack the Bag: Close the bag securely and ensure it is ready for the next visit.
5. Back at the Base:
- Clean the Bag: Regularly clean and disinfect the bag and its contents to keep them safe for future use.
- Restock Supplies: Restock the bag with any supplies that were used or are running low.
Important Points in Bag Technique:
- Hand Hygiene: Always sanitize your hands before and after contact with the bag or patient.
- Barrier Use: Place a clean barrier under the bag to prevent contamination.
- Minimal Handling: Only touch and use what is necessary to avoid spreading germs.
- Proper Disposal: Dispose of waste and used items safely and correctly.
The bag technique helps community health nurses deliver safe and effective care while preventing the spread of infections.
Comments
Post a Comment