Things You'll Need:
- Betadine Swabs
- Journals
- Blood Pressure Monitors
- Thermometers
- Thermometers
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Step 1
Help the patient with his medications, which should be taken at the same time each day. For the first month, he may be tired and a bit unfocused. Make a chart of medicines and the times you give them.
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Step 2
Take his temperature and blood pressure twice a day, at the same time each day, and write them down in a journal. Before breakfast and dinner is best.
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Step 3
Encourage him to move around. Lend your arm to steady him for a walk around the house four times a day.
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Step 4
Avoid the surgical site when helping him to move around. Take care not to apply pressure to the incision and surrounding area.
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Step 5
Measure urine output, and mark the total in a health journal. (Have a man use a urinal, and have a woman try placing a plastic "hat" under the toilet seat to catch the urine.)
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Step 6
Keep the incision clean. Wipe the site with a betadine swab, or follow whatever procedure recommended by your transplant coordinator.
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Step 7
Prepare nutritious, high-fiber, low-salt meals.
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Step 8
Listen to your loved one, who may feel depressed or frightened and may need to talk. Consider contacting your transplant coordinator for professional counseling.
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Step 9
Learn the signs and symptoms of rejection and infection. Report them to the transport coordinator immediately.
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Step 10
Prevent infection. Wash hands frequently, especially when you return home after shopping and other errands. No one who is sick or getting over an infectious illness should visit.
Comments
Anonymous said
on 6/30/2006 Predisone is a steroid they'll be placed on for awhile. It causes extreme mood swings and changes in weight and fluid retention! The best thing you can do is know that their moods have nothing to do with you. It's the medication. If they're on a high dose, encourage them to seek a faster taper with their medical facility. Instead of an 8 month taper, see if they can be put on a 3 week taper.