Table 1 Examples of recommendations pertaining to referrals from RNAO BPGs

Adult Asthma Care** RNAO, 2004

Assessment of Asthma Control:

1.3 For individuals identified as potentially having uncontrolled asthma, the level of acuity needs to be assessed by the nurse and an appropriate medical referral provided, i.e. urgent care or follow-up appointment.

Referrals:

5.0 The nurse will facilitate referrals as appropriate.

5.1 Clients with poorly controlled asthma should be referred to their physician.

5.2 All clients should be offered links to community resources.

5.3 Clients should be referred to an asthma educator in their community, if appropriate and available.

Screening for Delirium, Dementia and Depression in Older Adults** RNAO, 2003a

Practice Recommendations:

7. When the nurse determines the client is exhibiting features of delirium, dementia and/or depression, a referral for a medical diagnosis should be made to specialized geriatric services, specialized geriatric psychiatry services, neurologists, and/or members of the multidisciplinary team, as indicated by screening findings.

8. Nurses should screen for suicide ideation and intent when a high index of suspicion for depression is present, and seek an urgent medical referral. Further, should the nurse have a high index of suspicion for delirium, an urgent medical referral is recommended.

Integrating Smoking Cessation into Daily Nursing Practice** RNAO, 2003b

Practice Recommendations:

4. Nurses should be knowledgeable about community smoking cessation resources, for referral and follow-up.