520
Detailed Needs and Requirements: Intensive Care Units
Nurses must maintain almost constant visual surveillance of each
patient in the unit and of monitor read-out screens. The nurses' station
provides a base of operations for these activities; however, the focus of
nursing activity is at the patient's bedside. Optimum observation of
patients should be obtained from the nurses' station. Ideally, however,
all patients should be visible from any point in the unit.
Nurses should not be required to leave the unit while they are
responsible for the care of patients. Therefore, all necessary supplies,
medication and equipment should be available on the unit or readily
obtainable without leaving the unit. Disposal of human wastes,
dressings, food, paper, etc., and return of soiled linen and supplies
should also be possible without suspension of nursing care
responsibilities.
The staff should be able to take brief work breaks in an environment
that will provide relief from the tensions of the unit and yet is
immediately adjacent to it.
5. Medical Students
Exposure to intensive and cardiac care patients is an important part of
the instruction of medical students; however, their education should not
disrupt the activities of the unit. Maximum use of closed circuit
television and other devices may facilitate instruction without interfering
with patient care in these units.
6. Nursing Students
Small groups of nursing students may assist with patient care and
receive instruction on these units.
7. Social Work
See 522.1.4, 8.
8. Psychology
A psychologist may visit the unit to counsel with patients and relatives.
Privacy is important for these sessions.
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