Paraplegia is paralysis of the entire or part of the legs, trunk, or pelvic organs. This most commonly occurs due to an injury to the spinal cord, which damages nerves supplying the lower half of the body. Paraplegia leads to loss of sensation and movement of the affected parts. In addition, difficulty with bowel and bladder functions might be experienced in making home care a must. Paraplegia, sometimes called partial paralysis, is a sort of paralysis through which function is substantially impeded from the waist down. Most men and women with paraplegia have properly healthy and balanced legs. Instead, the situation exists in either the human brain or the spinal wire, which cannot send or maybe receive signals to that lower body due to an injury or unwellness, malady. Every patient is different, and the paraplegic patient care treatment that performs well for you might not work for another person. Generally speaking, paraplegic care treatment provides you with the very best chance at recovery, especially when you start acquiring treatment immediately following the injury. Therefore special nursing care of a paraplegic patient is needed.
SPECIAL CARE OF PARAPLEGIC PATIENTS
The intensity of symptoms depends upon the location and extent of damage to the spinal cord. Immediate treatment is hospital admission following the spinal cord injury and later, neurorehabilitation during recovery to enable the affected individual to live an optimal and near-normal life despite limitations of movement.
Patients with paraplegia require special paraplegic care to prevent infections and ensure that they have a decent quality of life. Despite interventions of an entire healthcare team, it is best if a family member to take care of the paraplegic patient at home or an immediate professional caretaker should understand the basic needs and should 24×7 provide proper care to the patient.
Patients generally gain a certain level of independence; however, most of them require daily home care services, especially if they are older in which case the condition may last for a lifetime. Therefore special nursing care of a paraplegic patient is advisable by the doctor.
Tips for home care of Paraplegic patient
1. Gaining independence using a wheelchair
Nursing Care Of Paraplegic Patient – Patient on wheelchair
Choosing the most accurate wheelchair depends upon a number of factors such as age, level of activity, and body type. There are different types of wheelchairs such as manual and electric wheelchairs. The most appropriate method of selection would be to try a couple of different types of wheelchairs and determine the level of comfort for the patient.
2. Readjusting furniture for better access
Paraplegic Care – The Person making furniture
In order for the wheelchair to move freely, it is necessary that any possible barriers such as furniture should be placed appropriately. Wheelchair ramps or lifts for entering the house enable easier access. Placement of cabinets and drawers should be lower than usual and at a height that can be easily accessed by the patient. You may also consider shifting the bedroom of the patient to a lower floor or ground floor. Ensure that railings are present in the bathroom and showers to prevent any fall or trauma.
3. Prevent bed sores
Paraplegic Patient Care – Person lying down
Lack of activity or movement in the patient for long periods of time can produce bedsores. These can be very painful and can get further infected. Sores usually develop on the back or the backside of the legs due to a constant prone position. Help and encourage the patient to roll on to his stomach for movement. Repositioning of the patient every few hours is crucial for avoiding pressure sores.
4. Inspect urinary catheter
Care Of Paraplegic Patient At Home – Urinary Catheter
Regularly inspect the catheter to avoid a urinary tract infection, and produce further complications for the patient. Signs of the presence of blood or pus in urine blocked the flow of urine, fever is signs of an infection and need urgent medical attention.
5. Daily chores require assistance
Nursing Care Of Paraplegic Patient – Jeans with zip
Daily tasks such as dressing, feeding, running errands may need assistance initially until the patient has adapted to do it by themselves. Look for simpler alternatives to enable independence.
- Install zippers instead of buttons on clothes where possible.
- Use a straw for drinking liquids like soups, juices, water, etc.
- Opt for wrap around clothing like lunges, long skirts over pyjamas, salwar kameez, to enable easier access while using the washroom, especially in persons with loss of control over bladder or bowel function.
6. Encourage hobbies
Nursing Care Of Paraplegic Patient – Disable person playing basketball
It is important to encourage patients to lead a life beyond the wheelchair. Recommend them to read books, paint, visit a local library, or watch movies. They can indulge in activities based on their personal interests. This will keep them mentally occupied as well as give a purpose to live. It is important to maintain a healthy relationship with family and friends as it helps to adapt to the change that has occurred in the way of living.
With a little care, precaution, and understanding, paraplegics can lead a fulfilling life even in a wheelchair. It is necessary that we appreciate their distinctive needs to provide them with a near-normal living.
