Mesothelioma and other cancers often weaken your close to the point where they become bedridden -. A burden to them and their caregiver
in bed for 24 hours a day deprives the person of daily activities that took their minds off of their condition, or provided a sense of independence as the shower. It also means they could suffer from pressure ulcers, a potentially fatal side effect of limited mobility.
For you as a caregiver, it is an additional responsibility because it means you have to learn how to wash your beloved, pay special attention to keep them clean and fresh bed, and find right clothes for them to wear while they are confined to their beds
When I caregiving for my husband Brian for his mesothelioma disease, I learned to provide care during times when he had to stay in bed
bath Clean Body, Mind
Feeling clean and fresh is important for the health and well-being of everyone, and we all know how good it is to have a nice shower or a long soak in the tub.
Unfortunately, everyone can not enjoy these simple pleasures. If your loved one has mesothelioma, the time may come when they are unable to move from their bed to shower or bathe themselves. Although a bedridden person is less active, it does not mean they should not bathe regularly
Daily bathing is necessary for their health and keeps them feel clean and comfortable -. Sensations that also raise their spirits. I always noticed how Brian felt better after I bathed him, and he changed into fresh clothes every day.
If your loved one is bedridden and can not bathe or shower themselves, you can help by bathing them in bed, also known as a bed bath.
a bed bath can seem a daunting task for the first-timer, but it is a relatively simple exercise, and with a little knowledge, you will be able to easily perform this service.
Keep a Bed Fresh
own bedding is also very important for the health and well-being of your beloved. Changing bed linen as often as you can. If possible, rotate the mattress to ensure that uniformly door.
A fitted, a plastic sheet on the mattress and under the bottom sheet protects the mattress from spills or other accidents.
If your loved one is able to stand on their own, place a chair nearby and help them in it. Their help will change the bed easier. However, you can always make the bed with them about it.
Making an occupied bed
If the person you are caring for is in a hospital bed and is mobile, they can hold the rails for support because they are located on each side to accommodate change of bed linen.
If the bed has no support rails, you will need assistance. Ask a family member or friend to help you by supporting your loved one on each side.
What to wear Room
Just because the person you are caring for is confined to bed means not not that they can not change their pajamas.
they can enjoy wearing a T-shirt and comfortable pants or shorts with time during the day. Regular clothing port can raise their morale and make them feel less like a patient. Loose clothing may be worn, but it's best to choose clothes that are easy to get on and off.
The mesothelioma sufferers can detect different temperature changes from that of their caregivers. Do not be afraid to ask your beloved how they feel. Follow their lead which makes them comfortable and what does not.
When help them choose what to wear to bed, look for loose shirts that easily fit on the head and arms. Pants with an elastic waistband are the best.
Brian liked to wear his favorite shirts during the day, and only put his pajamas before bed. Because mesothelioma has progressed, he suffered from excessive sweating, and I had to help in a clean shirt several times a day.
preventing pressure ulcers
People who are bedridden can develop pressure ulcers, also called bed sores and pressure ulcers. These are injuries resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. They are often very painful and can become infected
pressure sores can occur in a number of areas on the body, including :.
- Back of the head
- shoulder
- Lower Back
- Heels
- Buttocks
- Hips
Changing the position of a person on the bed regularly can help prevent bedsores. If your loved one is able to move freely, encourage them to run the way they rest at least every two hours. If they are immobile, you will need to help them. Talk to your district nurse to find out how you can move your loved one without them or yourself cause injury.
physical aids such as relief mattress pressure and elbow pads and ankle are also available. Ask your doctor, clinic or hospital where you can get these items.
check their skin every day, and inspect any areas that are especially dry. Gently rub the moisturizer in these areas to replenish the skin. Look at how much lotion you apply because too much cream on the skin can also lead to bedsores.
light massage can be helpful, soothing
While the bone massage, painful or inflamed areas is not recommended because the skin there is very delicate, caregivers can gently rub other body parts of your close using a suitable moisturizer.
light, non-greasy moisturizers work best. Almond or vegetable oil is also suitable, and they also prevent become dry skin.
You should also limit your massage to the head, neck and back. Try massaging the feet and hands. It brings equal relaxation.
Brian loved when I massaged his back and shoulders. He never failed to bring him comfort. I did it for him almost every day, and I enjoyed doing it.
