Paralysis can be caused by strokes, brain injuries, and traumatic accidents. If your loved one is either completely or partially paralyzed, then they may require home care services so that they can have their physical needs met. While some paralyzed patients need to receive their care in hospitals or skilled nursing facilities, home healthcare professionals can also provide skilled, complex, and acute care to paralyzed individuals. Here are some clinical interventions home care personnel can provide to those who have diminished physical functioning as a result of paralysis.
Bladder Catheterization
Paralysis can cause a lack of bladder function raising the risk for urinary retention. If urine remains in the bladder for long periods of time, infections can quickly develop. Severe urinary retention may also cause health problems such as high blood pressure. This is because when the bladder is overly full, it can make the kidneys work harder, increasing the risk for hypertension.
The home care professional will all assess the characteristics of the urine after they catheterize the patient. If the urine is cloudy or contains blood, the home healthcare professional can call the physician who will determine if the patient has a urinary tract infection.
PROM Exercises
It is essential that people exercise even if they are paralyzed. Exercise helps promote circulation and can reduce the risk for blood clots, which may be higher in those who are bedbound. The home care professional can do passive range of motion exercises (PROM) for the patient to promote optimal blood flow.
Passive range of motion exercises means that someone other than the patient does the movements. This means that the provider will move and flex the patient's arms and legs themself to help mimic the effects of active exercises done by the patient. If the patient is only partially paralyzed, they may be able to participate in their exercises, but if total paralysis is present, the healthcare provider will perform PROM without patient assistance.
During PROM exercises, the home care provider will also examine the patient's skin for inflammation, wounds, temperature changes, and abnormal coloring. If skin irregularities are revealed, the provider will alert you or the primary care physician.
If your loved one is paralyzed and wants to remain in their home instead of moving to an assisted living facility, contact a home care services company. When patients feel comfortable in their environments they may be more likely to enjoy a better prognosis.
For more information, contact a local company, like Moonlight Home Health Care.
