SKILL PROTOCOLS
**STUDENTS MUST KNOW & VERBALIZE EACH OF THESE STEPS
TO PERFORM ANY SKILL TESTING**
Pre Skill Protocol
Before performing any skill, follow these steps:
1. Verify the Primary Health care providers prescription if the skill is a dependent or
collaborative nursing intervention.
2. Gather the equipment and supplies and complete the necessary charges according to agency
policy.
3. Perform hand hygiene using appropriate technique.
4. Introduce yourself to the client and family.
5. Identify the client by using two identifiers (e.g.: checking the identification bracelet and
having the client state his or her name) or utilize the two identifiers per agency policy.
6. Explain what you plan to do using appropriate terminology.
7. Assess the client to determine that the intervention is still appropriate and if additional
assistance is needed.
8. Provide privacy for the client. Position and drape the client as needed.
9. Adjust the bed to the appropriate height and lower the side rail on the side nearest to you.
Check the locks on the bed wheels.
10. Provide adequate lighting for the procedure.
Post Skill Protocol
When completing any skill, follow these steps:
1. Evaluate the client’s response.
2. Assist the client to a position of comfort and organize needed toiletry or personal items
within reach.
3. Be certain the client has access to a call bell and knows how to use it.
4. Raise your appropriate number of side rails and lower the bed to the lowest position.
5. Dispose of used supplies properly and return reusable equipment to its proper storage
location. Leave the clients room free of clutter to provide a safe environment.
6. Remove and dispose of gloves, if used, and perform hand hygiene.
7. Document and report the client’s response and expected or unexpected outcomes.
Adapted from Davis’s Nursing Skills Videos