Final answer:
To document a new patient's personal belongings upon hospital admission, an inventory should be carried out. This inventory is reviewed aloud with the patient and includes detailed descriptions of each item, which is then securely filed in the patient's record.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a new patient is admitted to the hospital with personal belongings, it is important to document these items to maintain an accurate record and ensure their security. The correct procedure for documenting a patient's personal belongings is C) an inventory. During this process, a nurse or another member of the healthcare team should review the items aloud with the patient or their representative to confirm the accuracy of the inventory. This inventory should include a detailed list of the patient's belongings along with any specific characteristics to identify them, such as color, brand, or any identifying marks.
Moreover, it is crucial to ensure that the list is comprehensive and that each item is described accurately. The inventory should be recorded in a systematic and organized manner, and once completed, it should be safely filed in the patient's record for future reference. The documentation acts as a safeguard for both the patient and the hospital in the event of any disputes about lost or damaged personal items.