diabetic foot care
Others
Instructed patient assess bowel sounds in all 4 quadrants, assess effluent from ostomy. Empty pouch when 1/3-1/2 full, assess abdomen, report any abnormal findings immediately.
SN assessed portacath insertion site every visit. SN instructed s/sx to report to SN / MD such as redness, pain, puffiness around port, drainage from insertion site, temperature above 100 degrees, shortness of breath and chest pain. Sn instructed on portacath care and protection of the skin over the port.
Instructed patient When should I contact my healthcare provider. You drain less than 30 milliliters (2 tablespoons) in 24 hours. This may mean your drain can be removed. You suddenly stop draining fluid or think your JP drain is blocked. You have a fever higher than 101.5°F (38.6°C). You have increased pain, redness, or swelling around the drain site. If you have questions about your JP drain care contact your physician.
SN instructed patient and caregiver that the key difference between a suspected deep tissue injury (sDTI) and an unstageable pressure ulcer is that sDTI involves intact skin, whereas an unstageable ulcer involves a breakdown into at least the subcutaneous tissue. An unstageable ulcer is covered with necrotic tissue, such as slough or eschar, formed from remnants of the collagen matrix of subcutaneous tissue. So it’s always a full-thickness ulcer either stage III or stage IV.
SN instructed patient and caregiver on preventing skin tears. In terms of prevention, protective arm sleeves are helpful. The use of paper or gentle release tapes is also a better alternative to nylon tape, when it comes to sensitive or aging skin. In addition, it is important to routinely moisturize dry skin with an appropriate moisturize barrier. As we age, hydrating dry skin helps to replenish missing skin and keep skin healthy and intact. Oral hydration is important as well. Patient and caregiver verbalize understanding instructions given.