 |
 |
This is another reminder for all of us of the need to tAKE into account the effect of stress on PWPs, especially in a situation such as hospitalization . Yesterday, Peter went to the ER for test and was admitted for observation. He saw a specialist. He had the test. He decided not to stay for further testing(optional) but go home and think about it, and the specialist said OK. There was no problem with his meds, as I was there the whole time, and he was not given anything new. However, instead of being released by the internist who admitted him as expected--would have been about 5:30 PM--we waited and waited. Then were informed the doc would be there "8:30 or 9:00". By 9:30 he hadn't appeared, and the nurses, while sympathetic, could do nothing, of course. By chance I spotted one of his colleagues who knew us, and told him the situation which was that Peter, who had walked in at 8AM under his own power was now so stressed and shaky he couldn't stand up! He said at once, "Well let's get him HOME!" and proceeded to sign the release form. Bless the man!! I had to call our son-in-law to drive to our place and help me get Peter into the house, where he almost immediately was better. The effect of all the stress and worry was so noticeable, and couldn't be blamed on anything else. So please, be prepared for such a reaction when a PWP is hospitalized -- and recognize what may be the cause of the scary increase in symptoms temporarily-- knowing the cause helps both the PWP and the CG to cope, when things spin out of your control. Camilla Flintermann, CG for Peter, 78/7, Oxford,Ohio [log in to unmask] * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "Ask me about the CARE list for PD caregivers!" * * * * * * * * * * * * * *