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Principles for Light Touch Patients – B2
Last updated 16th June 2021
Introduction
- This document describes the selection and flow of the Light Touch patients cohorted onto ward B2. As an over arching principle, patients should be discussed with B2 nursing staff to have an overview of ward workload.
- Light Touch bed occupancy on B2 should not exceed 8 patients. These patients should be identified daily in the medical ward ‘Daily Dynamic Discharge’ huddles and be communicated to patient flow.
Suitability
- Medically fit for discharge and this MUST include being:
- Medically stable and NEWS 2 or less (unless on LTOT)
- All planned investigations complete
- Not receiving IV treatment
- Not requiring ongoing significant AHP input eg rehab or OT assessment
- Discuss with B2 nursing staff if patient has significant nursing needs/supervision
Requirements
- patients only at present
- If patient on CAU must be discussed and agreed with Dr Conley.
- Suitable patient must be identified to the Flow Coordinator
- The IDL including pharmacy review must be prepared by the home team before transfer
- CPR status/TEP must be clearly documented
- The reason for delay in discharge must be documented e.g. waiting for package of care
- Documentation in notes that NOK is aware of move and nature of light touch beds
- Ongoing minor follow up investigations i.e. intermittent bloods as would be appropriate in the cottage hospital setting must be clearly documented in the case notes.
- Checklist must be completed prior to nurse to nurse handover
- Nurse to Nurse handover must take place prior to transferring the patient
Lines of Responsibility
- Patients in light touch beds will not be routinely seen by medical staff of any grade.
- For minor illness/interventions e.g. pyrexia, analgesia, B2 F1 doctor can review.
- If patient unwell can be escalated to Dr Conley within hours Mon, Tues, Weds, Fri; Dr Cambeen in hours Wednesday, OOH team if OOH.
- If patient becomes acutely unwell and escalation of care appropriate, they should be referred to and accepted by the home team. Bed managers should facilitate transfer back.
- IDL must be completed by home team prior to transfer. Minor updates only by B2 FY1.
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Content by Dr Amy Conley