Kim, you wrote:
I am a registered nurse
>pursuing my masters in nursing and eventually have a desire to be a
>Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. I presently work in a nursing home and deal
>with parkinsons with my residents on a daily basis. I am always looking
>for new ways to make lives more fulfilling and keep self care at it's
>maximum level. I look forward to all the insight you can offer. Thanks,
>Kim Fuller ([log in to unmask])
Perhaps this will be of use to you and others
Sincerely
Joy Graham (With thanks to Bev Steward)
HOSPITALISATION FORM
AS A PERSON WITH PARKINSON'S DISEASE I HAVE PROBLEMS
WITH THE ITEMS CHECKED BELOW
Full
Name:.......................................................................
...............................................
Doctor:......................................................Neurologist:...
............................................
MEDICATION
o 1. I need my Parkinson's medication administered EXACTLY on schedule.
o 2. Without medication I will become rigid and disoriented.
o 3. Response to medication may affect physical therapy timing.
AMBULATION
o 4. I have difficulty with balance.
o 5. I may freeze and fall.
o 6. I require help getting motion started and walking.
ELIMINATION (underline specifics)
o 7. I have urinary problems: either hesitancy, frequency, inability
to wait, or incontinence.
o 8. I suffer from constipation, need a special diet or other
treatment. Impaction is a significant danger.
COORDINATION
o 9. I cannot open food containers easily.
o 10. I cannot always repeat a former action.
o 11. I may not have the strength to push a call button.
o 12. I have slow responses.
o 13. I have trouble turning over in bed.
COMMUNICATION
o 14. I have low voice volume.
o 15. I have difficulty enunciating.
o 16. My face shows little or no emotion ("mask" of Parkinson's).
o 17. I have difficulty with writing
EATING AND SWALLOWING
o 18. I choke on food and require a special diet.
o 19. I am a very slow eater.
SLEEPING
o 20. I have trouble getting to sleep.
o 21. I sleep fitfully.
o 22. I have anxiety sweats
ON-OFF PROBLEMS
o 24. I am often unable to do things which I could do earlier.
Adapted by the Parkinson's Association of WA from a list by Beverly Steward
(Central Ohio Parkinson Society Newsletter), to help make your stay in
hospital as satisfactory as possible. It is important to explain to the
nurses some significant facts about the way PD affects you. Ask to have
this sheet put in your file at the nurses' station. You might also
consider having a close family member get a limited power of attorney to
represent you, and if you have a Durable Power of Attorney, be sure the
doctor and hospital have copies.
