FOLEY CATHETER CARE
Others
SN instructed patient on signs of central catheter problems. The signs of catheter infection and problems are similar for all types of central venous catheters. If you have any sign of infection or catheter problem, call your doctor immediately. In addition signs of infection, clotting, or other problems include: Redness, tenderness, drainage, warmth, or odor around the catheter site Fever of 100.5F (38 C) or greater, or chills, swelling of the face, neck, chest, or arm on the side where your catheter is inserted, leakage of blood or fluid at the catheter site or the cap, inability to flush the catheter, or resistance to flushing the catheter, displacement or lengthening of the catheter. Patient verbalized understanding
SN assessed portacath insertion site every visit. SN instructed s/sx to report to SN / MD such as redness, pain, puffiness around port, drainage from insertion site, temperature above 100 degrees, shortness of breath and chest pain. Sn instructed on portacath care and protection of the skin over the port.
SN instructed patient that bleeding is frequently associated with any non-tunneled catheter insertion. More frequent dressing changes and/or a mild pressure dressing may be required. Excessive bleeding or bleeding that persists for more than 24 hours is not normal. Excessive bleeding may be caused by coagulation disorders, vigorous physical activity, or a traumatic insertion procedure.
Instructed patient drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps keep clots from forming. Instructed patient call your provider right away if coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath, a racing or irregular heartbeat, muscle stiffness or trouble moving tightness in your arm, above the catheter site.
Patient was instructed about foot care, trying non-impact exercise such as swimming, cycling, yoga, and tai chi are increasingly popular ways to exercise - with minimal impact on the feet. Talk with the doctor before starting an exercise program. Further teaching is needed.
Patient was instructed on foot care: a podiatrist can also fit patient with shoe inserts called orthotics to support the feet if have diabetic nerve pain or the muscles have become weak from nerve damage. If pain or weakness is so severe that it's too painful or even impossible to walk, a foot brace or orthopedic shoes might help. Further teaching is needed.
If your big toe slants sharply in toward your other toes, with a big bump on the knuckle of your big toe, you've got a classic bunion. Corns are spots of thick, rough skin, where the tissue builds up on toes constantly barraged by too much rubbing or pressure. A buckled-under toe, called a hammertoe, can result from muscle weakness caused by diabetic nerve damage. All of these make it hard to fit shoes comfortably. But a good podiatrist can help you fix these problems and take better care of your feet.
Patient was instructed on the importance of a good skin care which can prevent most pressure sores (bedsores) which develop in people who have already skin damage, who are mentally confused, who are bed bound or cannot turn side to side.
Patient was instructed on proper skin care after bathing. Do not put oils or creams between the toes. The extra moisture can lead to infection. Also don't soak the feet that can dry the skin.
Patient was instructed on the importance of a good foot care. Keep the blood sugar level as normal as possible. Wash the feet every day with lukewarm water and mild soap. Dry them well, especially between the toes. Pat gently.