Health Care Archive - Page 1417 of 1479 - Home Health Patient Education

Peritoneal Dialysis

Patient was educated on peritoneal dialysis as follows: Peritoneal dialysisis a procedure of cleaning the blood of fluid, salts, and other waste products, such as urea and uric acid, in patients with renal failure. Initially, this procedure includes a surgery to place a soft plastic tube or catheter in the abdomen. Sterile dialysis fluid called dialysate is introduced into the abdominal cavity through the catheter. This procedure uses peritoneum, a natural membrane lining the abdomen [...]

Nurse Teaching on Atrioventricular (AV) Fistula or Shunt

Patient was instructed on AV fistula or shunt as follows: Hemodialysis requires a bigger site than a normal vein for an easy access and good blood flow. AV fistula or shunt is a connection that is established surgically between an artery and a vein in the arm, in patients who are in renal failure and will continue dialysis for long term. Veins have less pressure and are more elastic and easily distensible than arteries. When [...]

Dialysis

Patient was educated on dialysis as follows: When kidney function is compromised, patients tend to retain fluid, salts, and other waste products, such as urea and uric acid. Retention of these substances can be overwhelming and toxic to the body. Dialysis is a procedure performed in patients with grossly diminished kidney function. This procedure substitutes the normal kidney function of cleaning the blood of the toxins and excess salts, and fluid. Dialysis is usually performed [...]

Complications of Fluid Retention in Dialysis Patients

Patient was educated on complications of fluid retention in dialysis patients as follows: The most common reason for fluid retention in dialysis patients is noncompliance with limitations recommended on fluid intake. Excess fluid volume in the circulation can result in uncontrolled blood pressure and consequently, can result in episodes of stroke. Fluid backup can occur into the lungs and extremities too and result in episodes of extreme shortness of breath and edema. Excess fluid retained [...]

Measures to Manage Thirst in Patients with Dialysis

Patient was instructed on measures to manage thirst in patients with dialysis as follows: Limit salt content in your food. Avoid eating chips and frozen foods, which have lots of salt added. High salt in the food will make the individual feel thirsty and can increase fluid intake. Maintain your environment in the house at cool temperature. Elevated temperatures can make the individual feel more hot and thirsty. Sip on small ice cubes to control [...]