catheter-teaching-guide
SN instructed patient/CG on Acetaminophen pain medication usually used to treat minor to moderate pain. SN instructed patient/CG to never exceed 3000 mg in a 24 hour period. As with any medication Acetaminophen may have side effects, and if you experience SOB or a life threatening side effect please call 911 and seek emergency treatment.
SN Instructed on measures to detect and alleviate edema: Gently compress the soft tissue with your thumb over both shins for a few minutes and observe for indentation. If indention is noted, edema is present. Notify SN or Md if there is a deep indention. Reduce sodium (Na) in diet and exercise as tolerated to help reduce edema.
SN instructed on ways to help reduce Edema: to elevate lower extremities above the level of the heart approximately 8-12 inches for at least 30 minutes 3/4 times a day to improve circulation, promote venous drainage and reduce swelling.
SN instructed patient on heart healthy diet: reduce na intake by choosing fresh vegetables instead of canned, choose healthy fats which includes olive and canola oil, walnuts and flax seeds, avoid foods that include margarine, avoid fried foods, and eat more soluble fiber foods such as apples, broccoli, carrots and avoid fatty meats such as hotdogs, sausage and bacon.
Patient was educated on how to wear ordered arm sling, Gently pull the sling over your arm and elbow. It should fit snugly around the elbow, reach around your neck and grab the strap behind your elbow and tighten the straps so your hand and forearm are elevated above the level of your elbow. Orders were to maintain sling at 90 degree angle and to avoid any activities with the arm. Patient verbalized understanding
SN instructed on intermittent claudication which is a condition caused by narrowing of the arteries that supply the legs with blood. Intermittent claudication causes pain in your calves when walking, Patients with intermittent claudication develop pain when they walk because not enough oxygen-containing blood reaches the active leg muscles. There are two main ways to treat claudication: medication and a surgical treatment, called revascularization. Medication therapies are often used initially as they are non-invasive. Compression therapy can also be used as a noninvasive way to treat symptoms of claudication. Intermittent calf compression has been shown in studies to improve symptoms-free walking distance.
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.
PICC line removal Education provided on site care following PICC line removal: positioning, keep dressing clean, dry and intact 24 hrs, do not lift over 5 lbs, report immediately S&S complications to on call RN: fever; chills;redness at site, swelling or purulent drainage at site, bruising or bleeding at site, increased shortness of breath.
SN instructed patient to eat a balanced diet and drink fluids, eat protein like red and white meat, eggs, beans and take vitamins from vegetables/fruits , to promote wound healing.
SN instruction patient and care giver on fall prevention starts with creating a safe living space. Clean up clutter. Repair or remove tripping hazards. Avoid wearing loose clothing. Light it right. Wear shoes.