Essential Techniques in Basic Nursing Procedures to Know for Foundations of Nursing Practice

Basic nursing procedures are vital for delivering safe and effective patient care. These skills, from hand hygiene to medication administration, form the foundation of nursing practice, ensuring health professionals can respond to patient needs and maintain high standards of care.

1. Hand hygiene

   • Essential for preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
   • Use soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers effectively.
   • Perform hand hygiene before and after patient contact, and after handling contaminated materials.

2. Vital signs measurement

   • Includes assessment of temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure.
   • Vital signs provide critical information about a patient’s health status.
   • Regular monitoring helps detect changes in a patient’s condition early.

3. Patient assessment

   • Involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s physical, emotional, and social health.
   • Use systematic approaches, such as head-to-toe assessments.
   • Document findings accurately to inform care planning.

4. Medication administration

   • Follow the "Five Rights": right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, right time.
   • Monitor for adverse reactions and effectiveness post-administration.
   • Educate patients about their medications and potential side effects.

5. Wound care and dressing changes

   • Assess the wound for size, depth, and signs of infection before changing the dressing.
   • Use sterile techniques to prevent contamination.
   • Document the condition of the wound and any changes observed.

6. Catheterization

   • Ensure proper indication for catheter use to avoid unnecessary complications.
   • Use sterile technique during insertion to minimize infection risk.
   • Monitor for signs of infection and assess urine output regularly.

7. Intravenous (IV) therapy

   • Verify the correct IV solution and rate of administration.
   • Monitor the IV site for signs of infiltration or phlebitis.
   • Educate patients about the purpose and potential side effects of IV therapy.

8. Oxygen therapy

   • Administer oxygen as prescribed, ensuring proper delivery method (e.g., nasal cannula, mask).
   • Monitor oxygen saturation levels and adjust flow rates as needed.
   • Educate patients on the importance of oxygen therapy and safety precautions.

9. Patient positioning and transfer techniques

   • Use proper body mechanics to prevent injury to both the patient and caregiver.
   • Position patients to promote comfort, safety, and optimal circulation.
   • Employ assistive devices when necessary for safe transfers.

10. Infection control practices

    • Implement standard precautions for all patients to reduce infection risk.
    • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately based on the situation.
    • Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and equipment.

11. Documentation and charting

    • Record all patient interactions, assessments, and interventions accurately and timely.
    • Use clear, concise language and follow legal and ethical guidelines.
    • Ensure documentation is complete to support continuity of care.

12. Basic life support (BLS)

    • Recognize signs of cardiac arrest and initiate CPR immediately.
    • Use an AED as soon as available for defibrillation.
    • Maintain a clear airway and provide rescue breaths if trained to do so.

13. Nasogastric (NG) tube insertion and care

    • Confirm the need for NG tube placement and assess the patient’s condition.
    • Use sterile technique during insertion and secure the tube properly.
    • Monitor for complications such as displacement or blockage.

14. Tracheostomy care

    • Assess the tracheostomy site for signs of infection or complications.
    • Perform regular cleaning and suctioning as needed to maintain airway patency.
    • Educate patients and families on tracheostomy care and emergency procedures.

15. Pain assessment and management

    • Use standardized pain scales to assess the intensity and quality of pain.
    • Collaborate with patients to develop individualized pain management plans.
    • Monitor the effectiveness of interventions and adjust as necessary.