patient-unable
Instructed patient / caregiver keep the insertion site and dressing dry, do not go swimming as swimming pools not only harbor bacteria but a wet dressing is an ideal medium for bacterial growth, do not allow pets or young children to play with the PICC line.
Instructed patient caregiver seek professional help immediately if any discharge, redness, swelling or pain around the catheter insertion site is noticed.
Instructed patient caregiver knowledge of maintenance and care of PICC lines insures long term use. Problems, detected early, greatly decrease any complications that might be associated with this line.
Instructed patient / caregiver blood pressure readings in the arm cannulated with the PICC should be avoided.
Instructed patient / caregiver strenuous work, with hand cannulated, lifting objects greater than ten pounds, or repetitive motion should all be avoided.
Instructed patient / caregiver that if the catheter breaks, whether bleeding does or does not occur, do not panic. Using sterile gauze, apply sufficient pressure at the site so it is tightly and well covered and immediately report this to the physician. Maintain pressure on the site at all times.
Instructed patient a clean, dry work area should be identified to complete medication preparations and perform dressing changes.
SN advised to patient / caregiver that blood glucose monitoring is the main tool you have to keep your diabetes under control. This check tells you your blood glucose level at any one time. Keeping a log of your results is vital. When you bring this record to your health care provider, he /she will have a good picture of your body's response to your diabetes care plan.
SN instructed patient / caregiver that the more you know about any medication you use, the better it is as they can be sure they're using it properly. There are simple safety measures when taking any medication like take each medication exactly as it has been prescribed, make sure that all your doctors know about all your medications, and let your doctors know about any other over the counter (OTC) medications, vitamins and supplements, or herbs that you use as well as any allergies to any medication.
Instructed patient about vacuum assisted closure ( VAC ) therapy as it promotes wound healing through negative pressure wound therapy.