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Home > Day One of "house arrest:"

Day One of "house arrest:"

August 23rd, 2011 at 09:45 pm

The visiting nurse came this morning, and it is so much more complicated to give myself an IV than I ever imagined. And even though they had the procedure written down, it was not up-to-date and the terminology wasn't clear to a lay person. I had to insist that someone come again tomorrow and take me all through it again before I will feel confident enough to do it on my own.

I also learned that my drain had not been flushed in the hospital (the bag never collected much). She flushed it, and it hurt like crazy. The orders are to flush it every other day. I can't do it myself because it's on my butt. So someone will have to do that. The nurse called to ask if there were any other alternatives, like other family, to train. I said, uh, no, I have two sons and they both live 40 miles away and work full-time.

What is home health care service for? I need help! I don't want to be a DIY-er with my life!

Sorry about the graphic detail.

I called the Human Resources person at my work, as directed, but only got voicemail.

I made followup appointments with my family doctor and with the surgeon.

I'm exhausted. But I'm still so happy to be home. In an hour and a half, one of my co-workers will deliver some KFC. I'll have supper, read and watch TV and then go to bed.

Then it will start all over again.

5 Responses to “Day One of "house arrest:"”

  1. PatientSaver Says:
    1314133388

    Unfortunately, hospitals are trying to cut corners and cut services in the process. I remember years ago when i had an MS relapse, I had to get an IV implanted in my arm and then hook myself up it every day for 4 hours to get the meds in my arm when i got home from work. A nurse came the 1st day only, which amazed me since a lot can go wrong with an IV, like infections, if you're not careful. You were right to insist on getting more instruction. Then i was on my own.

  2. LuckyRobin Says:
    1314134563

    Yes, definitely make them show you it again. When I left the hospital after my surgery, they hadn't instructed me on a few issues that they should have. Fortunately I found care videos on youtube and after watching them a couple of times felt confident in what I needed to do. You may be able to find some vids that will help you be more confident on the parts you can do. They were a live saver for me and I am forever grateful to the hospital that put them online.

  3. My English Castle Says:
    1314134744

    Yikes--and they call this a health care system? Glad you're home. It must feel great to be there at least.

  4. creditcardfree Says:
    1314139855

    Always advocate for what you need. Take care. Get lots of rest, too.

  5. laura (momcents) Says:
    1314146710


    Good for you for getting someone back! I remember when my oldest first had asthma and they sent me home with a nebulizer - I totally freaked out - and it had to be done round the clock every 3 hours. Not happy memories - though I'm quite proficient at it now.

    Take care, CB!

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