diverticulosis-and-diverticulitis
General
SN instructed patient that the incentive spirometer is used to improve the function of their lungs, and for patient to breathe in from the device as slowly and as deeply as possible, then holds their breath for 2 – 6 seconds, which provides back pressure that pops open alveoli. Patient should do this ten times and repeat 2 to 3 times a day.
SN instructed patient / caregiver on the home treatment to treating edema, or swelling due to excess fluid in the legs and ankles. Treatment may include elevating the feet above heart level, wearing compression stockings and exercising the legs. Reducing sodium in the diet, losing weight and avoiding tight clothing can also reduce swelling.
Sn Instructed patient / caregiver on the importance in logging blood pressure, blood sugar, oxygen and temperature daily to ensure medication treatment is working. Sn instructed on parameters and what to report to Physician / nurse ( MD / SN ). Instructed that it is important to know parameters and when to contact physician. Instructed this is a good practice to manage medical condition. Patient / caregiver verbalized understanding.
Instructed patent / CG wash skin around the tube with soap and warm water. Clean around G-tube to remove any drainage and / or crusting. Rinse soap off with clear water. Dry skin thoroughly. Keep this site clean and dry.
Instructed patient always wash your hands before and after changing the bag from the nephrostomy tube. If another person is assisting with changing your bag they must wear disposable gloves and protective eyewear. Ensure that tube is kept straight and not bent to allow proper flow of urine
Skilled nurse developed patient plan of care with patient/caregiver involvement to be countersigned by physician. SN to perform complete physical assessment each visit with emphasis on disease process. SN to assess other co-morbidities including list diseases and other conditions that present themselves during this episode of care. SN to recognize and intervene to minimize complications; notify physician immediately of any potential problems that impede completion of patient recovery and desired goals.
Instructed patient that when traveling with an LVAD will involve some extra planning and preparation.When scheduling a trip, discuss your plans ahead of time with your LVAD team. They‘ll help you be as independent as possible, and still stay safe and healthy. They can also provide you with the necessary travel documents, as well as helpful tips. Understanding was verbalized.
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 that infrequent passage of hard, dry stool, low back pain, abdominal fullness and/or abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite, nausea and/or vomiting, and rectal pressure may constitute as signs/symptoms of constipation. Patient verbalized understanding.
Instructed patient in lifestyle and home remedies that may help decrease edema and keep it from coming back. Before trying any self-care techniques, talk to your doctor about which ones are right for you. Moving and using the muscles in the part of your body affected by edema, especially your legs, may help pump the excess fluid back toward your heart. Ask your doctor about exercises you can do that may reduce swelling. Patient verbalized understanding.