Treat Patients According to the Protocol, Essay Example

Medical technology is constantly changing and evolving, so I am always interested in new technologies that can help patients. This is why I would be disappointed that my surgical unit was not up-to-speed on the new technique to reduce the risk of decubitus ulcers in patients. I would think it a good idea to implement any new procedures that could help in this case, since decubitus ulcers can be so devastating, as these bed sores can become contaminated with bacteria and lead to the patient’s flesh becoming necrotic, among other complications (Revis, 2012). In addition, treating the patients according to the current protocol is still a sufficient way to reduce the risk of developing these ulcers, and that is to eliminate pressure by turning and repositioning patients every 2 hours and keeping wounds and surrounding skin clean and free of contaminating bodily substances (Revis, 2012). My responsibility as a staff nurse is to ensure that this is done by making sure all nurses on staff, as well as nurse’s aides, are aware of the severity of not turning and repositioning patients regularly in 2-hour intervals. It is also my responsibility to check the patient each time the patient is turned and repositioned to monitor for any signs of decubitus ulcers forming. Many times patients are not monitored closely to be sure they are not left lying in positions too long that place too much prolonged pressure on any part of their bodies. In addition, if the patients are able to communicate, I feel it is my responsibility to let them know that they should tell me if they feel any discomfort or pain in any area that may be under too much pressure of lying in the bed at a certain position for too long.