Definition of Nursing Protocol
A protocol is a predetermined medical pathway of treatment that is used for a patient with a particular diagnosis or set of symptoms. Protocols are used in many different health care professions in a variety of medical settings.-
Clinical Use
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Nursing protocols are developed by the Nurse Protocol Committee and signed by a consulting physician. Nurses in medical practice must review and sign off on protocols relevant to their setting annually.
Requirements
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Protocols should be cost-effective and must comply with state regulations, policies and legislature. They must be modified according to practice standards dictated by current research findings. Protocols must be in writing and readily available to nursing employees.
Examples
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Nursing protocols in the hospital setting include medication administration, assistance with activities of daily living and mobility, wound care, dietary modifications and pain management.
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