***********
Several folks have written of planned hosp[italizations---here's an
excellent post from my files, which can of course be adapted to your
situation:
**********
Geneva
WHEN A PARKINSONIAN IS HOSPITALIZED
By Beverly Steward
(from Central Ohio Parkinson Society newsletter,9-93, adapted)
When a parkinsonian is admitted to the hospital it is very important to
explain to the nurses some significant facts about PD...to make the
hospital stay as satisfactory as possible for both patient and staff.
Below is a list of some common problems PD patients have. Check those
which are your particular problems. Make sure you put your name at the
top...and hospital room number if you know it. Ask to have this sheet
put in your file at your nurses' station, to make things easier for you
and for the nursing staff. Consider having a close family member get a
limited power of attorney to represent you, and if you have a Durable
Power of Attorney for Health Care be sure the hospital and doctor have
copies.
***************************
My full name is________________________________Room_____ Bed_______
AS A PARKINSONIAN I HAVE PROBLEMS WITH ITEMS CHECKED BELOW:
Medication 1. Need Parkinson medication administered EXACTLY on
schedule
2. Without medicine will become rigid and disoriented
3. Response to medication may affect physical therapy timing
Ambulation 4. Have difficulty with balance
5. Freeze and fall. Require help getting motion started and
walking
Elimination (check and underline specifics)
6. Have urinary problems: either hesitancy, frequency, inability to
wait, or
incontinence
7. Suffer from constipation, need special diet or other treatment.
Impaction is a
significant danger
Coordination 8. Cannot open food or other containers easily
9. Cannot always repeat a former action
10. May not have strength to push call button
11. Have slow responses
12. Have trouble turning in bed
Communication
13. Have low voice volume
14. Have difficulty enunciating
15. Face shows little or no emotion ("mask of Parkinsons")
Eating & Swallowing
16. Choke on food and need special diet
17. Very slow eater
Sleeping 18. Trouble getting to sleep
19. Sleep fitfully
20. Have anxiety sweats
Camilla Flintermann, CG for Peter 80/70/55
Oxford, Ohio
http://www.newcountry.nu/pd/members/camilla/one.htm
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"Ask me about the CARE list for
Caregivers of Parkinsonians ! "
