Mar 23, 2008 10:15 PM -

Originally Posted by semisweetchick

Thank you for a very sensitive article. I won't forget it.

I'll be graduating in May, and you may be interested to know that I have been taught never to check for Homan's sign, because the action involved can break loose a clot if there is, indeed, one forming. Rather, we are instructed to palpate the calves gently for tenderness and heat. I haven't read the recent literature on this, so I can't cite any findings to support the (new) practice, but it definitely is what my school is teaching.

Thanks again for this interesting piece!

Yeah, the Homan's is limited - and controversial. (I thought about omitting the part about checking it, but some places still want it done. Either way, good judgement is required with any assessment & institution policy.)
Thanks for mentioning that here.

Mar 24, 2008 01:17 AM - "Loving Nurse" is most certainly the best name for you. I have seen many things, but never an autopsy. Even in death, through your eyes this young woman was advocated and remembered. May everyone be as fortunate to have a caring person such as yourself, present both in mind and in heart, should they have to go through such an experience. Thank you.....Your empathy and compassion come through so beautifully through your writing....

Apr 03, 2008 09:37 AM - Dear LovingNurse

Compassionate and engaging. Thank you.

And, of course, Congratulations on your Prize!

Mark

Apr 04, 2008 10:46 AM - Thanks for the interesting and touching story.

I'm not familiar with my "nurse speak" yet...I think I've gathered that "P.E." is a pulmonary embolism...I wonder what is "DVT" ??

Apr 04, 2008 10:50 AM - DVT: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Deep venous thrombosis

Apr 04, 2008 04:21 PM - What an incredible story. I am to graduate this June and I will not forget this story. This is a great site and I am thankful for nurses like you and others.

Apr 08, 2008 03:57 PM - Great story thanks for sharing. You have an incredible talent !! I look forward to reading more of your stories or articals that you write or post.

Apr 20, 2008 02:50 PM - thank you lovingnuse for sharing your expirience, My husband was diagnosed with PE after having ankle surgery in 2007 My God, we were lucky! I will not forget this article ever!

Apr 20, 2008 10:49 PM - Reike25, that must have been very frigthening for both of you. I'm so glad your husband is okay. Whew!

Apr 22, 2008 01:52 AM - That was a great story. I am going to share it with my classmates. Thank you!!!