foot care
Patient was instructed on peripheral arterial disease that is a hardening of the arteries that prevents proper blood flow. The improper flow is one of the risk factors for foot ulcers, which can lead to amputation.
Patient was instructed on diabetes with injury. People who have diabetes are vulnerable to nerve and vascular damage that can result in loss of protective sensation in the feet, poor circulation, and poor healing of foot ulcers. Careful attention needs to be paid to any abrasion or wound to ensure the quickest healing possible. It is important for people with diabetes to routinely inspect feet, in particular, to check for any issues.
Instructed on the importance of reporting any foot problems to podiatrist or physician.
The patient was instructed in diabetes mellitus ketoacidosis discussing blood sugar monitoring, when the test will take place, the technique, the necessary blood sugar range, how to read test results, what to do for abnormal results, the cleaning of equipment. The patient was taught when she or he is sick monitoring is increased to every 4 hours because illness or injury increases glucose demand. The patient was advised to maintain meticulous dental hygiene to prevent infection, wear shoes all the time to prevent foot injury. The patient was advised to monitor for vaginal infections. The patient was instructed the need to carry fast-acting sugar livesavers, sugar packets for treatment of hypoglycemia. The patient was advised to obtain appropriate items, equipment, and assistive devices for various diabetic needs, glucose monitor, medialert bracelet.
SN completed assessment done on all body systems and noted patient with elevated blood pressure during visit. SN completed treatment during visit and noted no drainage on old tx, wound callused and new area found to left medial top of foot remains intact with no drainage noted. SN noted patient complaint of pain to bilateral lower extremities with +2 edema noted. SN educated primary caregiver on the importance of elevation of bilateral lower extremities as well as pain management for patient.
SN instructed patient on Gout. It is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It is associated with elevated levels of a natural waste product in the body, uric acid. Uric acid can build up in your bloodstream to very high levels and form urate crystals in your joints. The first attack is likely to be on a foot or most commonly a big toe.
SN instructed patient you can do many things to help knee pain, whether it's due to a recent injury or arthritis you've had for years. Too much rest can weaken your muscles, which can worsen joint pain. Find an exercise program that is safe for your knee. Do exercise, don’t risk a fall. A painful or unstable knee can make a fall more likely, which can cause more knee damage. Curb your risk of falling by making sure your home is well lit, using handrails on staircases, and using a sturdy ladder or foot stool if you need to reach something from a high shelf.
The patient was instructed in osteomyelitis in the necessity of wound care using aseptic method for dressing changes. The patient was advised to care of a casted extremity. The patient was reviewed to care for external fixator device. The patient was recommended how to use and care for the Hickman catheter for home antibiotic therapy. The patient was encouraged in the importance of immobilizing the affected part to reduction the spread of infected material.
Instructed in refusal to observe wound care or participate with care if they feel unable/uncomfortable with this procedure.
The patient was instructed in cervical cancer explaining of type of cancer and the therapeutic or surgical procedures to be performed.
Patient Undergoing Surgery, the patient was reviewed avoid coitus and douching for 2 to 6 weeks after surgery, avoid heavy lifting and vigorous activities.
Patient Undergoing Cryosurgery/Laser Therapy , the patient was taught that perineal drainage is clear and watery initially progressing to a foul-smelling discharge that contains dead cells, reviewed perineal care and hygiene, recommended need for regular Papanicolaou and pelvic examinations.
Patient Undergoing Pelvic Exenteration, the patient was instructed to obtain appropriate supplies for ostomy care, the patient was taught on perineal care explaining the drainage may continue for several month, the patient was reviewed in wound irrigation procedures and application of sanitary pads, avoid prolonged sitting.