Pre admission environment checks for nurses

1. Patient Identification

Verify patient identification using two identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).

Confirm the patient's medical record number.

2. Medical History Review

Review the patient’s medical history for any allergies.

Assess previous surgeries, chronic conditions, and current medications.

3. Vital Signs Assessment

Measure and record the patient’s vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate).

Note any abnormalities for immediate follow-up.

4. Safety Checks

Ensure the environment is free from hazards (e.g., clutter, spills).

Confirm that emergency equipment (e.g., crash cart, fire extinguisher) is accessible and functional.

Verify that all exits are clearly marked and accessible

Check that patient beds are in the lowest position and brakes are engaged

Ensure that call bells and emergency buttons are within reach of the patient

Confirm that safety alarms (e.g., bed alarms) are functioning properly

Review the location of safety protocols and emergency procedures for staff reference

Assess that personal protective equipment (PPE) is readily available and in good condition

Inspect the lighting in the area to ensure it is adequate for patient safety

Ensure that medical waste disposal containers are available and properly labeled

Validate that signage for infection control practices (e.g., hand hygiene reminders) is visible

Confirm that the floor is clean and dry to prevent slips and falls

5. Infection Control

Verify that hand hygiene supplies are available (e.g., soap, hand sanitizer).

Check for proper personal protective equipment (PPE) based on patient needs.

Here are some additional steps that could be included in the Infection Control section of the checklist

Assess the patient's infection status and history to determine any specific precautions needed

Ensure that isolation protocols are in place if the patient has a communicable disease

Confirm that surfaces and equipment in the patient area are clean and disinfected

Verify the availability of waste disposal containers for biohazardous materials

Ensure that staff members are up-to-date on relevant vaccinations (e.g., influenza, COVID-19)

Review and follow standard operating procedures for handling and disposing of sharps

Conduct a risk assessment for potential exposure to infections based on the patient's condition

Ensure that all reusable equipment has been properly sterilized or disinfected

Confirm that patient care items (e.g., linens, utensils) are clean and free from contaminants

Educate the patient and family on infection prevention measures relevant to their care

6. Equipment Availability

Ensure that necessary medical equipment is available and in working order (e.g., IV pumps, monitors).

Confirm that all supplies needed for procedures are stocked and organized.

7. Communication Readiness

Check that communication devices (e.g., phones, intercoms) are functioning.

Ensure that there is a clear handoff report from previous shift or provider.

8. Patient Education Materials

Verify that educational materials relevant to the patient’s condition are available.

Confirm that staff is prepared to provide information regarding the admission process.

9. Consent and Documentation

Ensure that consent forms are ready for patient signatures.

Check that all necessary documentation is prepared for admission (e.g., orders, care plans).

10. Team Coordination

Confirm that all team members are aware of their roles and responsibilities.

Schedule a brief team huddle to discuss patient needs and priorities.