Skill Checklists for Taylor's Clinical Nursing Skills: A Nursing Process Approach

205

Skill Checklists for Taylor's Clinical Nursing Skills:
A Nursing Process Approach, 3rd edition

Name Date

Unit Position

Instructor/Evaluator: Position

SKILL 9-14

Applying a Sling

Goal:The arm is immobilized, and the patient maintains muscle

strength and joint range of motion. Comments

1. Review the medical record and nursing plan of care to
   determine the need for the use of a sling.


2. Perform hand hygiene. Put on PPE, as indicated.


3. Identify the patient. Explain the procedure to the patient.


4. Close curtains around bed and close the door to the room,
   if possible. Place the bed at an appropriate and comfortable
   working height, if necessary.


5. Assist the patient to a sitting position. Place the patient’s
   forearm across the chest with the elbow flexed and the
   palm against the chest. Measure the sleeve length, if
   indicated.


6. Enclose the arm in the sling, making sure the elbow fits
   into the corner of the fabric. Run the strap up the patient’s
   back and across the shoulder opposite the injury, then
   down the chest to the fastener on the end of the sling.


7. Place the ABD pad under the strap, between the strap and
   the patient’s neck. Ensure that the sling and forearm are
   slightly elevated and at a right angle to the body.


8. Place the bed in the lowest position, with the side rails up.
   Make sure the call bell and other necessary items are
   within easy reach.


9. Remove PPE, if used. Perform hand hygiene.


10. Check the patient’s level of comfort, arm positioning, and
    neurovascular status of the affected limb every 4 hours or
    according to facility policy. Assess the axillary and cervical
    skin frequently for irritation or breakdown.

Copyright © 2011 by Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Skill Checklists for Taylor's Clinical Nursing Skills:

ExcellentSatisfactoryNeeds Practice