skin breakdown
General
SN instructed Patient about intertrigo: It is usually a chronic with insidious onset of itching, burning, and stinging in skin folds. Intertrigo commonly is seasonal, associated with heat and humidity or strenuous activity in which chafing occurs. In addition to obesity and diabetes, hyperhidrosis may be a risk factor for intertrigo. Additional factors that predispose individuals to perineal intertrigo include urinary or fecal incontinence, vaginal discharge, or a draining wound.
SN instructed the reason it is important to help or use proper turning techniques to prevent friction and shearing of skin. Friction usually, but not always, accompanies shear. Friction is the force of rubbing two surfaces against one another. Shear is the result of gravity pushing down on the patient's body and the resistance between the patient and the chair or bed. When combined with gravity/force (pressure), friction causes shear, and the outcome can be more devastating than pressure alone.
SN instructed patient / caregiver about a few simple precautions that can be taken to create a safe home environment when using oxygen. Oxygen canisters should be kept at least 5 - 10 feet away from gas stoves, lighted fireplaces, wood stoves, candles or other sources of open flames. Do not use electric razors while using oxygen ( These are a possible source of sparks ). Do not use oil, grease or petroleum - based products on the equipment. Do not use it near you while you use oxygen. These materials are highly flammable and will burn readily with the presence of oxygen. Avoid petroleum - based lotions or creams, like Vaseline, on your face or upper chest. Check the ingredients of such products before purchase. If a skin moisturizer is needed, consider using cocoa butter, aloe vera or other similar products. For lubrication or rehydration of dry nasal passages, use water - based products. Your pharmacist or care provider can suggest these.
Ostomy care Instructed patient the materials you use to wash your stoma and the skin around it should be clean, but they do not need
to be sterile.
Urostomy care Instructed patient When to Change the Pouch. Most urostomy pouches need to be changed 1 to 2 times a week. It is
important to follow a schedule for changing your pouch. DO NOT wait until it leaks because urine leaks can harm your skin.
Instructed patient Keep the dressing (or bandage) clean, dry, and secured to the skin. Do not put lotions or ointments under the dressing. Call your provider right away if you have any of the following: Pain or burning in your shoulder, chest, back, arm, or leg Fever of 100.4?F (38.0?C) or higher Chills Signs of infection at the catheter site (pain, redness, drainage, burning, or stinging)
Patient instructed on the importance of drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day. Hydration is important for wound healing, healthy skin, digestion, healthy kidneys, and electrolyte balance. Instructed on the increased risk for dehydration during the summer months.
SN instructed the patient to keep oxygen away from any open flame to include smoking and also in-home pilot lights such as stove, furnace and water heater. Oxygen produced from concentrator and oxygen tanks is flammable. Call your company for a humidifier if causing nasal dryness or you may purchase lubricants made for oxygen use at your local pharmacy. Do not use Vaseline or petroleum based products as these can cause irritation and skin complications. Post no smoking / no Open Flame signs.