Need help on quadrapelegic care!

Specialties Home Health

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I was just recently hired as a home health care LPN, and all of my patients are quadrapelegics. I start my job tomorrow, and being new, I want to be able to go into these homes with confidence and some information before it is given to me. In other words, I feel like a small fish in a very BIG pond!!! I realize that quadrapelegics experience autonomic dysreflexia, so I'd appreciate any information anyone has to offer on that. Don't get me wrong, I am aware of all the signs and symptoms but a ton of information is better than a small amount. Also, when I was in school I was taught how to use a Hoyer lift, so I am not concerned about that, but I was informed that I will be doing pivot lifts and slide transfers...sounds self explanatory but again I would appreciate the extra input. (FEEL REALLY DUMB :uhoh3: ) Comfortable with catheterization, but can anyone also give me input as to proper cleaning of straight caths....heard of just soap and water....then 1 part vinegar 3 parts water????? Maybe its just my nerves of starting tomorrow that has me worried. I'm sure I am prepared, but what could it hurt to ask for more info, right??

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Specializes in MS Home Health.

I think you might want to check the company policy on cath care as it varies greatly. Good luck in your new job.

renerian

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Specializes in Med-surg > LTC > HH >.
I was just recently hired as a home health care LPN, and all of my patients are quadrapelegics. I start my job tomorrow, and being new, I want to be able to go into these homes with confidence and some information before it is given to me. In other words, I feel like a small fish in a very BIG pond!!! I realize that quadrapelegics experience autonomic dysreflexia, so I'd appreciate any information anyone has to offer on that. Don't get me wrong, I am aware of all the signs and symptoms but a ton of information is better than a small amount. Also, when I was in school I was taught how to use a Hoyer lift, so I am not concerned about that, but I was informed that I will be doing pivot lifts and slide transfers...sounds self explanatory but again I would appreciate the extra input. (FEEL REALLY DUMB :uhoh3: ) Comfortable with catheterization, but can anyone also give me input as to proper cleaning of straight caths....heard of just soap and water....then 1 part vinegar 3 parts water????? Maybe its just my nerves of starting tomorrow that has me worried. I'm sure I am prepared, but what could it hurt to ask for more info, right??
HI Michelle, how did your first day go. Please tell us all about it first chance you get.
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WOW what a day! It turned out to not be as difficult as I thought it would be, but then again it wasn't easy either! I took in so much information my head might explode within the next few minutes! just kiddin. Actually it was a pretty good day...I had orientation with the RN that has been on the case and the patient knows all of his care so if on my first day alone I get lost, he's able to talk me thru it. The hardest thing to do for my patient is the transfering.....but once I get the technique down, I'm sure I'll be fine. Thank god for those back support vests! The second hardest thing was finding the location....I was so lost it wasn't even funny! Other than that, everything was A O.K. Well, I'm off to have dinner with my boyfriend to celebrate a successful first day of work! Thanks for your well wishes, and I wish the same for all of you as well. Buh bye for now!

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Specializes in MS Home Health.

REsearch shows the vests do more harm then good. I have not seen a home care company use them in some time.

Glad your getting settled .

renerian

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