Protocols set a standard for care across the boards. They not only promote uniform care between patients, but also promote communication and collaboration within a team. Protocols ensure proper policies and procedures are followed, complete teaching is performed, and ensure continuity will exist in the direct and indirect care of patients regardless of which members of the nursing team are present.

The content of this session will describe designing the Photodynamic Therapy Protocol at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Hartford, CT. Included will be guidelines developed for patient scheduling, coordination of care and teaching, Photodynamic Therapy Injection Day, and Photodynamic Therapy Treatment Days. Also included will be the competency developed for laser use, guidelines for nurse assistants, and postdischarge instructions. This blueprint for providing care was developed by the author with the endoscopy photodynamic nursing team at St. Francis Hospital.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the Abstracts from the SGNA's 32nd Annual Course: Passion for GI Nursing: Pass It On!! The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.