bleeding-precautions!
General
SN instructed patient and caregiver on strategies that can significantly help decrease the risk of a fall such as: skid-proof mats or strips in the shower and bathtub, removal of furniture that can slip away if grabbed accidentally for support, supportive non-slip footwear and not walking in stocking feet. SN also instructed on side effects of most medications taking that could possibly cause dizziness and to report it so that it can be addressed by physician. Patient and caregiver voiced understanding of all instructions given.
Sn instructed patient on seizures and precautions for safety at home. replace glass tables or furniture with wood, glass can break and cause injury, leave interior doors open, don't take shower unless someone is in the house and make sure family and friends are aware of your seizures and know what to do to help if you have a seizure. Notify nurse or Physician if seizures occur. If a grand mal seizure occurs go to ED after recovery.
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 / caregiver about a few simple precautions that can be taken to create a safe home environment when using oxygen. Post signs in every room where oxygen is in use. Make sure that absolutely no smoking occurs in the home or in the car when oxygen is in use. Secure an oxygen cylinder to a solidly fixed object to avoid creating a missile out of the tank. This might happen if it was accidentally knocked over and gas was allowed to escape. Use caution with oxygen tubing so you do not trip over it or become entangled in furniture. Be familiar with the equipment and the safety checks established by the medical equipment provider. Keep their contact telephone numbers, and the numbers for other emergency services, posted near a phone. Do not try to repair broken equipment on your own. Request this service from the oxygen provider. Make sure smoke detectors in the home are working. Have fresh batteries installed. Perform monthly checks. Have a fire extinguisher available in the home as well ( Use type ABC ). Create and practice an escape and rescue plan in the event of a fire. Notify the local fire department, gas and electric companies and telephone company when home oxygen therapy is started. Request a "priority service listing". This is for those times when there is a power or telephone failure or repairs are needed on any utility.
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.
SN instructed patient and caregiver about how to implement fall prevention program. Check the lighting in your apartment, consider installing a grab bar, replace scatter rugs with rubber backed rugs, make sure the light near the bed is easy to reach, move the phone within arm’s reach of your bed, easy access to the things you use the most. Patient and caregiver verbalized understanding.
SN taught patient rise slowly and pause prior to ambulation to ensure proper blood pressure adjustment. Pump ankle 5-10x to reduce risk of blood pressure drop after rising from seating position. Make sure you feel your seat on the back of your legs prior to sitting. Use appropriate assistive device to ambulate. Take extra precaution while turning, around rugs/mats and avoid walking backwards.