catheter-teaching-guide
Others
Patient was instructed about how to check both feet daily looking over them carefully every day, and be sure check between all of the toes. Blisters and infections can start between the toes, and with diabetic neuropathy, may not feel them until they've become irritated or infected. If physical challenges occur, ask a family member to help. Further teaching is needed.
Patient was instructed about how make sure the shoes fit well. Even the slightest rubbing or misfit shoe can cause a blister that turns into a sore that becomes infected and never heals. Buy better-fitting shoes, or try different socks, even at the most minor signs of redness or irritation, since you may not be able to feel when it's getting worse. Before buying or putting on the shoes check your shoes for rough seam, sharp edges or other objects that could hurt your feet. Further teaching is needed.
Patient was instructed about the feet care: always wear shoes or slippers. Always wear socks with the shoes, since leather, plastics, and manmade shoe materials can irritate your skin and quickly bring on blisters. While the Diabetic patient might prefer the look of hose, nylon knee-highs, or thin socks, may find that these doesn't give to the toes or heels enough protection. Wear thicker socks to pad the feet and cushion any calluses or sore spots. Further teaching is needed.
SN teaching the patient / caregiver on S / S ( signs / symptoms) of wound infection to report to physician, such as increased temp >100.5, chills, increase in drainage, foul odor, redness, or unrelieved pain.
SN completed all education for this SNV, and reminded patient on the importance of going to all medical appointments, bringing blood pressure log and all of his/her medications. Patient/Caregiver verbalized understanding.
SN provided teaching regarding hypokalemia. Low potassium (hypokalemia) refers to a lower than normal potassium level in your bloodstream. Potassium helps carry electrical signals to cells in your body. It is critical to the proper functioning of nerve and muscles cells, particularly heart muscle cells. S/s include weakness, muscle cramps, heart palpitations, and constipation. SN instructed that patient should report any of these to her nurse promptly. Verbal understanding noted.
Instructed patient to avoid the use of electrical equipment, such as, electric beds, heating pads or electric razors.
Instructed patient about the importance of injecting insulin not exactly in the same place each time, but move around in the same area so the insulin reaches the blood with the same speed with each shot.
Instructed patient that insulin shots work the fastest when given in the abdomen.
Instructed patient not to have open flames, such as pilot lights of gas stoves or water heaters, within 12 feet of any oxygen equipment.