Is it ever ok to remove a resident from his room while giving routine care

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Feb 16, 2013

IMO, it would depend on a few factors, most notably: exactly what the routine care entails (keep in mind that what is considered "routine" could vary somewhat depending on the patient and their condition), could the patient be given a reasonable level of privacy while you perform this care...and if not, could the patient or roomie be removed if necessary so privacy is maintained?

I'd say in the vast majority of cases, removing the roomie would NOT be necessary. But you'd have to assess the situation.

ccweisbard · Feb 17, 2013

I have never removed a roommate unless my patient was coding or in some critical situation....,

SaoirseRN · Feb 17, 2013

In a code situation, or a situation where a patient was behaving violently, I have removed a roommate. For daily care, no.

ComeTogether, LPN · Feb 17, 2013

Not for routine. Post mortem or Code situatons, yes absolutley.

LindaBright, MSN · Feb 18, 2013

Unless there are special circumstances (emergency, violence, death etc.) I've never seen that happen before.

boggle, ASN, RN · Feb 19, 2013

I have tactfully removed a roommate, directed to an activity, while administering enema, fecal disimpaction. The resident being cared for was totally oriented, and was embarrassed enough to e to go through the procedure. Sparing the roommate from the odor, and the roommate from further embarrassment seemed the kindest thing to do at the time.

Hmm, after rereading this, I guess enemas/ disimpaction isn't really considered "routine" care. It just feels like "routine" for some residents on some days. Boy we need more hydration and fiber around here. :)