Standard Operating Procedures for Hospitals

Public or private hospitals use standard operating procedures in departments ranging from security to housekeeping. These procedures are used to teach and protect employees, patients and contractors. One type of procedure is implementing a security lock down. Additional procedures can include range response to a fire and protecting patient safety.

Lock Down Plan

• A lock down plan authorizes personnel to close entrances and exits for reasons such as a security breach. According to the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), hospitals can perform a total lock down or controlled lock down, such as exit doors only. The lock down plan should be updated annually. Explain the procedures for each situation to staff members.

Fire Response Plan

• A fire response plan should provide safety to employees, visitors and patients. It should make clear when staff and patients should evacuate. A copy of the plan should be available in each department.

Hazardous Chemicals Procedures

• Employees facing exposure to hazardous chemicals range from nurses to hospital housekeepers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suggests that employees receive training before handling chemicals. Create a hazardous chemicals guideline, which includes when protective equipment such as gloves or face masks must be worn.

Contaminated Laundry

• Nurses and housekeeping staff member face exposure to blood and bodily fluids. Develop guidelines to reduce exposure to contaminated laundry. The guidelines should include how contaminated laundry is labeled, how it should be transported and where it should be stored.

Patient Safety

• Patient safety procedures should protect inpatients and outpatients. The rules should outline how and when health professionals should be hired, such as setting a requirement for a state license. Other subjects could include infection control and how patient safety is measured.