Published
Poor hand hygeine. Too close to the toilet when flushing. Not ideal functioning for peri care secondary to obesity. I wouldn't rule out a UTI either.
Patient could benefit from some occupational therapy to assist in personal care. And respitory therapy to teach her how and when to change all of the gadgets on her CPAP.
Here's another thought.... Does the patient have pets? Household pets are known carriers of E. coli
Many people think nothing of having their pets around no matter what they are doing. I had a patient that had an E. coli wound infection. The odor from that wound was quite impressive. His wife had been changing his dressings and used less than clean technique. They were astonished that their dog can carry it.
I'm not too familiar with the mechanical configuration of a CPAP, but I would assume that there is an air intake filter. It would probably be well advised to make sure that it is changed and/or even the whole machine sanitized before the patient continues using it.
Just a thought.
jmdRN
68 Posts
Had a patient recently who had a deep, productive cough x several days. Docs asked for a sputum culture, so night shift sent off 1st sputum of the morning last week.
Got the C&S back and had a few of the 'usual suspects' ie haemophilus influenze pneumonia and strep..... and..... wait for it...
E. Coli!!!
How in the name of all things good did E coli end up in this patients' lungs?
Bit of history, was initially admitted for "weakness, pre-syncope" and found to have a rapid heart rate. Somewhat obese pt with history of OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) requiring c-pap at rest.
I'm wondering if the c-pap might have had something to do with it?