Thursday, June 24, 2010

Caregiving Maxim #20:
Change is constant

Change is constant – every day can be different. Long periods of constancy are also possible. However, assessing each month, three months, or six month periods will show changes in the patient’s health and capabilities.

Be aware that the patient could change at any minute. Watch how he/she performs different duties and accommodate any activities that are no longer possible. Journal the changes in caregiving notes to keep a record of what has occurred. These notes will be important to medical professionals.

Know that change can be important to the patient’s health and well-being. Do not be afraid to call the primary care doctor or Hospice nurse and ask for help or advice. What the caregiver sees may be vitally important and indicate a change in medications or assistance level.

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