Overview of bedside care

Caring for your loved one or patient who is unable to leave their bed has many aspects and means. This can be an end of life situation fraught with emotional difficulty. But, being prepared for the common challenges of bedside care makes a huge difference. Mobilizing all the assistance you can get will be instrumental in providing the best care possible. This ensures more time spent with your elderly loved one in peace and contentment whenever possible. Your local hospice can help determine exact needs but, you can start with these considerations to get started-

• Use the right bed-A hospital bed is very helpful when a patients' strength declines and they are unable to get up on their own. These beds have mechanisms to adjust the head or foot of the bed, enabling more consistent comfort. Be aware that it is common for patients to protest the idea of a hospital bed. They feel that a hospital bed in the home signals defeat. In the end, remind them that it's about comfort and care. Patients with congestive heart failure or respiratory disease, for example, greatly benefit from a hospital bed's ability to raise the head of the bed to facilitate easy breathing. If refusal persists, it is possible to place cushions (IE. couch cushions) under the head of the mattress to raise it up. Side rails can be secured in place under the mattress for increased independent mobility. It is also important to keep the bottom bed sheets flat and smooth. This detail is easy to miss but, it makes such a difference in care. Wrinkles in the bed or any debris irritates or injures the skin and causes discomfort.
• Emotional changes are common-Restlessness and agitation are a regular part of being bedridden. Anxiety can seem overwhelming at times and caregivers may feel powerless to work against its affects. This type of agitation is known as terminal restlessness. It is a major symptom to control for your loved one's safety and well-being. Experienced hospice nurses have learned to be aware of the potential for these patients to attempt to get up out of bed when left alone. The risk of falling and getting injured is great. Being mindful and watchful is necessary to ensure their well being. Medications may assist in calming your loved one down and relieve the agitation but, relief and safety from things like sidebars and even restraints may be prudent.

The products and supplies you may need can be found at The CareGiver Partnership. They offer a wide variety of bed rails, personal care products and other items to assist in the bedside care of your loved one. Their knowledgeable specialists can help you determine what you will need in order to give the highest quality care possible to your loved one who is not longer able to leave their bed. Remember that bedside assistance is about providing the greatest degree of comfort and the highest standard of safety possible. Turning to experts on behalf of your elderly parent or patient is a measure of care everybody can provide.