Caring For and Elderly Family Member

[Someday NICU RN]

Hi All,

I am new here and am not sure if I posted this in the correct place.

I am wondering how to go about caring for my grandmother. She does not need it yet, but I know that the day will come when she does and she has already made me promise to never put her in a nursing home. I have no problem being her nurse but I am wondering how this is done. Is it treated as any other nurse-patient relationship? I guess what I mean is, will I need orders, ect. for things? I know I will probably need to hire another person for some of the time, like when I am at work and things. I am wondering if anyone else has ever done this and what it was like. I know a lot of it will depend a lot on her condition at that time, but I am just wondering if there are any "rules" I must follow. I hope I am making sense!

Thanks!

[CoffeeRTC, BSN, RN]

I'm not sure what you are asking?

I've helped take care of many family members as a dghter, granddaughter, neiece who was a nurse. Just as I would care for anyone else. Of course you will be more familiar and laid back with loved ones.

[sister--*]

Wow, what a loaded question. Having been there myself there are A LOT of things to get in order.

Most importantly, have HER discuss with EVERYONE in the family what her wishes are and that she has chosen you to be her representative. Put it on paper....make it legal! It's also a good idea to give every family member a copy so there are no surprises. Have her review her wishes with her Dr.s and have copies placed in her medical charts and with the hospital/hospitals that she uses.

Ask her frequently about her wishes and update the documents to reflect any changes. Have her share these changes with each family member and keep her medical charts updated.

I've found that in the 11th hr. there is always at least one famly member who wants to second guess the decisions. This can add tremendous heart-break, turmoil, and familial hard feelings to an already difficult situation. It can quickly turn into a nightmare even with the most cohesive and loving family.

It's all about the communication.

[GingerSue]

where I live there are some guidelines from the registering association about caring for one family member - so check with your licensing association

[zacarias, ASN, RN]

First and foremost you will a granddaughter taking care of her grandmother, not a nurse taking care of a grandmother.

Just like healthcare workers train families to do dressing changes on their loved ones, so they should do that for you. If you already know, then it'll flow that much easier. While your nursing skills should help you in this process, you can by no means be objective nor should you be; Your the granddaughter and your grandmother will want you as such.