Posted by Patti Green on March 04, 19100 at 11:49:33:
In Reply to: Re: bedridden posted by cheryl on March 02, 19100 at 20:19:16:
Also, you could get a bedbound device that is made
for just your situation: A device that is positioned on the bed, with the ladies head in it-
that funnels water into a bucket onthe floor.
Some other things:
Make sure staff are turning the lady often to prevent open areas onher skin. Check for red areas
esp. on butt, hips, behind head & ears, elbows-
all bony areas.
Pay attention to oral/mouth care- a clean mouth
is the goal. Use ice chips for hydration.
Don't force fluids or food.
Keep the lady dry and change her often if she
needs it.
Lotion should be applied liberally and often to
keep skin comforatble.
Feet need special care as well- lotions and rubs
keep residents comfy.
CHnage bed linens often- twice a day or more.
New pillow cases very often. People who are dying
may be hot- or cold- see if lady gives any
cues as to how she feels and act based on this.
Check out these websites for good info:
http://www.emanon.net/~kcabell/signs.html
And:
http://www.hospicenet.org/index.html
Good luck.
Patti