Policy:

1.0 To define a process for use of cell phones for patient related activities.
2.0 Minimize the risk to patients and staff by providing a mechanism for staff to communicate with HCPC personnel when off-campus.

Procedure:

1.0 Cell phones will be maintained in the Nursing Supervisor’s office in a locked cabinet.

2.0 Ancillary support staff and the Nursing Supervisor will account for all phones every shift and document reconciliation on the staffing sheet.

3.0 Ancillary staff and the Nursing Supervisor will ensure that all phones are charged to the optimal level and are ready for use at any time.

4.0 Staff will be assigned a cell phone when accompanying a patient off campus activities, such as for medical emergencies and diagnostic appointments.

4.1 A phone will be provided to both the driver and the escorting staff.

5.0 Ancillary support staff will be responsible for the check out and check in process, Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm. After 4:00pm, weekdays and on week-ends the Nursing Supervisor will be responsible for this process.

5.1 Staff receiving the phones, as well as the staff checking out the phones will be responsible for completing the Cell Phone Log (See attachment).

6.0 Staff in possession of the cell phone assumes responsibility for the replacement or repair of the phone in the event that the phone is lost or damaged.

7.0 Cell phone use is restricted to calling HCPC and receiving calls from HCPC only. Personal use of any cell phone is prohibited.

8.0 Staff is expected to keep the phone on at all times in the event an HCPC personnel needs to contact you.

9.0 Staff utilizing the phone is responsible for knowing and communicating the number of the cell phone in use.