Sunday, 26 August 2007
To walk or not to walk...
One of the hardest things I’ve found on my Cardio prac so far is finding the balance between leaving patients alone, and trying to help them. I understand the importance of rest for these patients, some of whom are quite unwell, as well as the benefits of getting them up and moving to prevent further complications. Many patients, especially those of the older generation have the belief that as they are unwell they should stay in bed. In the last week I have spent most of my time chatting to these patients and ‘coming back later’ to check if they are ready yet to go for a walk. It works at the moment, but I realise as a new graduate and beyond, I will not have the luxury of that much time. The best way I’ve found to get around this problem is to compromise with a shorter treatment time. It also seems to be a lot easier once you have built up rapport with the patient (I had a win on Friday with a patient who previously wasn’t keen to ambulate!). If anyone has any other suggestions I would be most grateful.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
Hi Jess
I'm in a similar position currently...at PMH working in Oncology. Therefore the kids I'm seeing are newly diagnosed, currently recieving chemo/radiation therapy and usually very nauseaus as a result. They too aren't keen to get going and do any exercise, because it usually induces more nausea.
the compromise I have made is organising 'set treatment times'. This is the time that I can see the patient that suits us both and they have to try and do as much as they can...occasionally this is only 10 SLR each leg and 10 shoulder presses, but hey its something.
I also have the luxury of very physio orientated parents who if I'm not able to see the patient will most of the time get these kids to do there exercise later when they're feeling better. So often the treatment isn't directly done by me, but at least I know these kids are doing it...
I know thats not particularly helpful in your situation but its just another example.
I like the compromising you've done, it empowers the patient and makes them feel like they have choice and control.
Post a Comment