SN instructed patient about oxygen use precautions: Oxygen is a safe gas as long as it is used properly. Do not store your oxygen system near any heat sources or open flames. Do not smoke or allow others to smoke in the same room as your oxygen system, sparks from a cigarette could cause facial burns. Post “No Smoking” signs in the room where your oxygen is kept.
Patient with biliary catheter instructed patient do not eat after midnight on the night before your procedure. You may have sips of water with your medicines
Patient with biliary catheter SN instructed patient when to call the doctor or go to emergency: Active bleeding at the drain site that does not stop after you put finger, pressure on it, more pain or swelling at or around the drain site, your temperature is greater than 101 degrees fahrenheit, with or without chills
SN instructed patient/CG keep the skin around your biliary catheter dry. You can take showers if you cover the area with plastic wrap. If the area does get wet, dry the skin completely after you shower.
SN instructed patient/cg if you notice leakage of bile around the biliary tube, this may be a sign that the catheter is blocked, call your nurse.
Empty your pouch when one-third to one-half full. Change your skin barrier every 3-7 days. You should not experience frequent leakage of your pouch seal. If you do, consult a WOC Nurse. Usually soap is not needed to clean the peristomal skin. If you use soap, make sure it does not contain any oils or lotions that can interfere with adhesives. Always rinse your skin and dry completely before you adhere the new pouch. After you apply your skin barrier, hold it in place against your skin for about one minute. This will help to activate the adhesive. You can shower, bathe, or swim with your ostomy after you are cleared by your physician. If you are using a bedside collection bag, clean it daily with a recommended solution to help minimize odor, crystal formation, and bacteria.
Instructed patient / caregiver the arm with the PICC line must not be babied. Normal use, in fact increases blood circulation in that arm.
Instructed patient / caregiver inspect the site daily for any irregularities, such as swelling, redness, leakage or pain. If any irregularities or complications are noted, report them to a healthcare professional immediately.
Instructed patient / caregiver if the catheter breaks, whether bleeding does or does not occur, do not panic. Using sterile gauze, apply sufficient pressure at the site so it is tightly and well covered and immediately report this to the physician. Maintain pressure on the site at all times.
Instructed patient / caregiver for minimizing problems associated with PICC lines, guidelines include: Always wash hands before touching the PICC line, do not allow any sharp objects near the line, do not clean the skin near the line with any acetone containing cleanser.