SN instructed patient Patients with LVADs experience many physical and emotional changes. Although there are many physiological benefits (increased energy, reduced shortness of breath), patients may become depressed or even suicidal. Many patients feel socially isolated and express frustration over loss of control and dependency on family and caregivers. Others may be afraid of their device.
SN instructed patient several factors put patients with LVADs at high risk for infection—for example, malnutrition. Potential sources of infection include ventilators, central venous catheters, peripheral I.V. lines, and indwelling urinary catheters. Keep in mind that all hospital patients are at risk for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection and Clostridium difficile infection, as well as pressure injuries, which can become infected.
SN teach the patient patients with LVADs are typically prescribed several medications, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics, fluids, and electrolytes.
SN teach the patient to perform a daily self-test to ensure the LVAD is working properly. When the patient presses and holds the battery button on the system controller, the screen displays "Self Test" If the panel is working properly, the audio alarm will sound and control panel alarms will light up. These alarms include power and battery alarms, a red heart (hazard) alarm, and a wrench (advisory) alarm.
SN instructed on check the left ventricular assist device (LVAD) each time you assess the patient’s vital signs. You will hear the continuous humming sound of the pump when auscultating the heart. Make sure the battery-charging station is plugged into the wall and at least two spare batteries are in the charge station; a green light indicates a full charge. Additional safety checks include assessing the driveline to ensure it’s securely in place and confirming there’s a backup system controller in the room.
Hand washing performed. Assembled supplies and created sterile field. Foley catheter removed and discarded using a double bag technique. Peri hygiene performed. Donned sterile gloves Insertion site area prepped using 3 swabs betadine. Foley catheter 20 Fr. 5 ML balloon inserted using sterile technique. Blood tinged urine immediate return that cleared to yellow noted. Catheter attached to collection bag for gravity drainage. Pt. tolerated well.
Patient was instructed To help your ulcer heal more quickly, follow the advice below:Regularly exercise your legs by moving your feet up and down, and rotating them at the ankles.
Patient was instructed to help your ulcer heal more quickly, follow the advice below: try to keep active by walking regularly, whenever you're sitting or lying down, keep your affected leg elevated with your toes level with your eyes.
Instructed patient Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:Your stoma turns pale or changes color. Your stoma swells or bleeds. You have little or no waste going into your pouch.
Instructed patient Call your doctor or nurse call line now or seek immediate medical care if: You are vomiting.You have new or worse belly pain.You have a fever. You cannot pass stools or gas.
