bedbound-patient
Diseases Process
RN instructed patient and caregiver on balance in order to avoid fall that can produce complications in musculoskeletal system. RN explained that with age, a combination of factors decreases balance and the nerve endings in our feet don't detect impulses as readily and the balance control centers in our brain and our ears operate more slowly so age - related changes in vision and hearing, even when subtle, also contribute to the decline in balance and could increase the risk of falls. Patient and caregiver voiced understanding of all instructions given.
SN instructed patient on liver failure. The early symptoms of liver failure are similar to symptoms of many other conditions. Because of this, liver failure may initially difficult to diagnose. Some of the most common initial symptoms of liver failure are: Nausea, Loss of appetite, fatigue, diarrhea. As liver failure progresses, the symptoms become more serious. The most common symptoms of advanced liver failure include: Skin itchiness, jaundice, bleeding easily, bruising easily, swollen abdomen, mental disorientation or confusion, sweet or foul smelling breath, sleepiness, coma. Educated patient that the liver filters the Ammonia out the blood and that liver failure causes Ammonia levels to increase, which cause change of mental status, confusion, and sleepiness or fatigue.
SN instructed patient on Colostomy Care.The patient should limit foods that may cause gas and odor: These include vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. Beans, eggs and fish may also cause gas and odor. Eat slowly and do not use a straw to drink liquids. Yogurt, buttermilk and fresh parsley may help control odor and gas.
SN instructed patient about that swelling of ankle or hands or increased dyspnea ( SOB ) or moist coughing is a sign of congestive heart failure ( CHF ) and contact with physician is needed reporting symptoms. Patient was able to be taught back.
Sn instructed patient on diabetes management. Aim for your A1c level to be between 6-7%. For every 1% you decrease your A1c levels you decrease your risk of Diabetic complications. Physical activity helps to decrease blood sugar levels and monitor your food intake such as carbohydrates and fats. Patient verbalized understanding.
SN instructed patient that to drink plenty of fluids ( fever, which may be related to the flu, can cause dehydration ). It is important to maintain hydration. Take acetaminophen ( but do not take aspirin unless your doctor tells ). SN instructed patient to get a flu shot each year and decrease the exposure to the flu.
SN instructed patient about respiratory infection to drink plenty of fluids ( fever, which may be related to the flu, can cause dehydration ). It is important to maintain hydration. Take acetaminophen ( but do not take aspirin unless your doctor tells ). SN instructed patient to get a flu shot each year and decrease the exposure to the flu.
SN instructed patient on wound care. The patient should be sure to have a well-balanced diet. This include protein, vitamins and iron. Note: using a blender or chopping food does not change the nutritional value of the food.
SN instructed patient on ways to avoid acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ) by recognizing early warning signs and then taking action to stop them in their tracks. The best way to do this is to work with your health care provider on an action plan so you know what to do to treat an exacerbation before it becomes serious. SN instructed on early warning signs of an acute exacerbation: Wheezing or more wheezing than what’s normal for you, coughing more than usual, shortness of breath that is worse than usual, an increase in the amount of mucus, change in the color of your mucus to yellow, green, tan, or bloody, shallow or rapid breathing, more than what’s normal for you, fever, confusion or excessive sleepiness, and swelling in your feet or ankles. Patient nods head in understanding. Sn will continue to monitor.
Patient was instructed to drink adequate amounts of fluids to prevent dehydration. Sports drinks and fruit juices are helpful too, but they don't provide the ideal balance of water, sugar, and salt. However, drinking more fluid than your body can process can reduce the amount of sodium (salt) in your blood. In the elderly, your body's fluid reserve becomes smaller, your ability to conserve water is reduced and your thirst sense becomes less acute. Symptoms are: extreme thirst, less frequent urination, dark-colored urine, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, patient verbalized understanding.