How would you care for Scleroderma patient

[Shari1565]

Hi All

Im a CNA student and have to give a presentation on Scleroderma

Part of the project is to discuss how to administer care to a patient with Scleroderma. Scleroderma can be systemic or localized. Systemic being more serious as it affects the organs. Localized is pretty much the hardening of the skin , joints.. Scleroderma is an autoimmune disorder that causes hardening of joints and connective tissue. For the systemic kind, some of the organs affected are lungs, heart, digestive.

So.. they could have GERD, pulmonary hypertension, edema.. etc.. I know it's a lot to think about, but I am just trying to see if anyone has any ideas. Let's just say, as an example if they suffered from GERD b/c that is a side symptom, I would keep them in Semi-Fowlers position in the bed, to prevent the reflux.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

[Butterfliesnroses]

Like you said if they had GERD I'd elevate their head of bed. If they had edema in their lower extremeties I would give frequent rest period with their feet being elevated...In the nursing home I work in alot of the residents with lower edema don't like to lay down so often times we'll convince them to relax in their recliner with their feet up.

[rancelumsden]

I don't know if I'm stating the obvious, but "Google" 'caring for patient with Scleroderma'.

For instance, I found this link to a Johns Hopkins site: http://scleroderma.jhmi.edu/patients/comprehensive-care.html

The answer to your question is going to be what symptoms they present and go from there. As one of the items in the article talks about, increased dental care may be needed if they have dry mouth and eyes. If they are experiencing weakness, a regular ambulation schedule may be in order.

If joint pain is present, making sure there is adequate padding may be called for.

Etc. Sorry, no personal experience with this....