wound care
General
SN instructed that self-care measures can help ease the pain of a migraine headache. Such as, muscle relaxation exercises. Relaxation may help ease the pain of a migraine headache. SN instructed that relaxation techniques may include progressive muscle relaxation, meditation or yoga. SN also instructed that it is best to get enough sleep, but don't oversleep. Get an adequate amount of sleep each night. It's best to go to bed and wake up at regular times, as well. SN instructed on the importance of being able to rest and relax. If possible, rest in a dark, quiet room when you feel a headache coming on. Place an ice pack wrapped in a cloth on the back of your neck and apply gentle pressure to painful areas on your scalp.
SN instructed that keeping your regular cast dry is very important! There are no devices that are 100% effective in keeping any cast dry. Sponge baths are the safest way to keep the cast dry. If you have to take a bath or shower, please follow these instructions: place a towel or washcloth around the upper portion of the cast. Cover the entire cast with 2 plastic bags ( use two in case one has a leak, secure the bag at the top with tape or a rubber band, if the cast gets moist, dry the top or bottom of the cast using a blow dryer. Use only the cool or low setting, if the cast is soaked all the way through, it needs to be changed ( call doctor office )
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.
Sn instructed patient on ways to prevent Urinary tract infection ( UTI ). If the patient is elderly be careful with cleaning, be sure that the perineal area is being cleansed properly. Women should always wipe themselves from the front to the back. If you are tending to perineal care, take steps to ensure that you always wipe your starting in front of the urethra and wiping towards the anus. Before wiping the area again, fold the rag to a clean section. The idea is that residue from the anus should never be dragged toward or against the urethra. Patients that wear adult diapers, or briefs, should be changed on a regular basis. They should be checked every two hours or so and they should never be allowed to sit in dirty briefs for prolonged periods. You should also wiped and cleansed after every brief change and bowel movement. Douches should never be used. The right drinks - what you drink can make a difference. Caffeinated drinks and alcohol can irritate the bladder and should be avoided as much as possible. Patient and caregiver verbalized understanding.
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 check for redness, swelling, any drainage or excess skin growing around the tube. A small amount of clear tan drainage can be normal. Call your care team with any concerns. Instructed patient remove old dressing (if dressing is being used). Look at the area where the tube enters the skin
Instructed patient caregiver clean technique includes tracheostomy care: hand washing, using gloves is optional, re-using a trach tube and/or inner cannula that has been properly cleaned, using prepared sterile water and normal saline, re-using the same trach ties if they are properly cleaned, re-using suction catheters if they are properly cleaned ( up to 8 hrs or 3/per day )
SN instructed the patient about care of incision site. Patient was instructed to check the incision daily for signs and symptoms of infection like increased drainage or bleeding from the incision site, redness in or around it, foul odor or pus coming from the incision, increased swelling around the area and fever above 101.0°F or shaking chills.
SN educated patient on some ways to cope with stress and anxiety. explained to the patient that anxiety can be a normal part of life when faced with stressors such as changes in relationships, presenting in front of a crowd, or making decisions. There is no one right answer to eliminate anxiety. It is important to find healthy coping skills that will work for you. Consult with your primary care physician when anxiety becomes persistent or unmanageable. SN Instructed patient about some coping skills to consider when struggling with anxiety include: Reaching out to support system (i.e. family/friends, counselors, psychiatrists, or support groups). Deep breathing Meditation, Yoga, Avoiding caffeinated beverages, Healthy diet, and Calming music. Patient Verbalized fair understanding of anxiety teaching.
SN instructed patient / caregiver on proper incontinence care as to check every 2-3 hours if needed. Educated on pressure reduction measures as to change patient's position in bed/chair every 2-3 hours, avoid positioning on affected areas and use pressure reduction mattress or chair cushion.