Instructed patient / caregiver keep the insertion site and dressing dry, do not go swimming as swimming pools not only harbor bacteria but a wet dressing is an ideal medium for bacterial growth, do not allow pets or young children to play with the PICC line.
Instructed patient caregiver seek professional help immediately if any discharge, redness, swelling or pain around the catheter insertion site is noticed.
Instructed patient caregiver knowledge of maintenance and care of PICC lines insures long term use. Problems, detected early, greatly decrease any complications that might be associated with this line.
Instructed patient / caregiver blood pressure readings in the arm cannulated with the PICC should be avoided.
Instructed patient / caregiver strenuous work, with hand cannulated, lifting objects greater than ten pounds, or repetitive motion should all be avoided.
Instructed patient / caregiver that 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 about vacuum assisted closure ( VAC ) therapy as it promotes wound healing through negative pressure wound therapy.
Instructed patient about vacuum assisted closure ( VAC ) therapy helps draw wound edges together, remove infectious materials and actively promote granulation.
SN instructed patient and family on how to change the colostomy bag. Patient also educated on to drink more water and fruit juices, up to six to eight glasses per day. Include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, as well as fibrous foods such as whole-grain breads and cereals to prevent constipation
SN instructed patient and caregiver on how to change the colostomy bag. SN instructed how to properly closes the bag and explains that there are different types; do not expect to see the same bag always. SN instructed that patient and caregiver have to wash their hands and always use gloves before working on the colostomy area.