wound care
SN completed assessment done on all body systems and noted patient with elevated blood pressure during visit. SN completed treatment during visit and noted no drainage on old tx, wound callused and new area found to left medial top of foot remains intact with no drainage noted. SN noted patient complaint of pain to bilateral lower extremities with +2 edema noted. SN educated primary caregiver on the importance of elevation of bilateral lower extremities as well as pain management for patient.
Instructed patient about vacuum assisted closure ( VAC ) therapy Therapy, promotes wound healing and how its unique mechanisms of action differentiate it from other NPWT devices.
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 patient that steri strips may fall off the skin after 10 days. Leave the steri strips in place until they fall off on their own accord or until your doctor determines it is appropriate to remove them. If the wound has healed and your doctor says you can remove the strips, use lotion or a small amount of water to loosen them from your skin.
SN instructed that the steri strips may fall off the skin after 10 days. Leave the steri strips in place until they fall off on their own accord or until your doctor determines it is appropriate to remove them. If the wound has healed and your doctor says you can remove the strips, use lotion or a small amount of water to loosen them from your skin.
SN instructed patient about how the thyroid hormone helps regulate metabolism. When this hormone is abnormally low the energy production decreases, disrupting many vital functions. This can include skin issues such as: Coldness in the fingers and feet with pale and dry coarse skin, eczema, a yellowish hue to the skin, sparse and brittle hair, which comes out in handfuls, loss of hair in the outer third of eyebrows, slow growing, ridged and brittle nails, edema in face, eyelids, hands and feet, and delayed wound healing. Some of these things can be avoided if you are taking your replacement medication daily as ordered and are getting regular blood work to assure the medication is at the correct dose.
SN explained that the Chronic venous insufficiency ( CVI ) can’t be cured, but you can control leg swelling to reduce the likelihood of ulcers ( sores ). Recognizing the symptoms Be aware of the following: If you stand or sit with your feet down for long periods, your legs may ache or feel heavy. Swollen ankles are possibly the most common symptom of Chronic venous insufficiency ( CVI ). As swelling increases, the skin over your ankles may show red spots or a brownish tinge. The skin may feel leathery or scaly, and may start to itch. If swelling is not controlled, an ulcer ( open wound ) may form. What you can do Reduce your risk of developing ulcers by doing the following: Increase blood flow back to your heart by elevating your legs, exercising daily, and wearing elastic stockings. Boost blood flow in your legs by losing excess weight. If you must stand or sit in one place for a period of time, keep your blood moving by wiggling your toes, shifting your body position, and rising up on the balls of your feet. Pt verbalizes understanding.
SN instructed patient/cg regarding diet modification promoting wound healing: increase protein in your diet. Food reach in protein: eggs, meat, cheese, milk, fish, peanut butter, legumes. Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day. Eat food reach in vitamin C ( citrus fruits and juices, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, potatoes) and zinc such as fortified cereals, red meat, and seafood. Patient Verbalize 80% understanding: Requires more instructions.
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.
Instructed in measures important in foot care of the diabetic: wear shoes that support and fit properly, wear socks that are clean and fit properly, avoid going barefooted, etc.