Interacting with the patient in an easy-going and understanding way is critical to speeding up the treatment and recovery process. Multiple healthcare professionals such as nutritionists, therapists, nurses, and others provide their patients with useful information which is supposed to help them change behavior and improve life quality (Gunn, 2017). Productive patient education ensures a client is capable of making the right choices as well as offering assistance that allows them to achieve an ideal state of health. Although patient education is a patient’s right in many countries, it is often perceived as the health care provider’s responsibility (Wittink & Oosterhaven, 2018). For this essay, I decided to interview my friend’s 57-year-old grandmother, who recently underwent kidney stone surgery.
Did a patient education representative give you instructions on how to care for yourself after your illness or operation?
Prior to the surgery, my urologist provided me with much information concerning the process of the intervention itself and the upcoming recovery. She also advised not to smoke and not take blood clotting medications, which I used to do. Moreover, the doctor described the recovery process in detail so that I could be ready to follow her recommendations for at least six weeks. She warned that I might have some blood in my urine, nausea, or fainting pain, which would be regular. What is more, both urologist and surgeon recommended that I have a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, eat healthily, and reduce the level of physical activity. I also had a nephrostomy tube left in a place of surgery, and my surgeon instructed me how I should remove it carefully.
Did a health care professional, pharmacist, nurse, doctor, or elder counselor advise you on your medication, diet, or exercise?
Yes, all medical professionals advised on how to facilitate the recovery process; they informed before and after the surgery. They recommended drinking plenty of fluids to make my urine a standard color. In addition, to maintain good health, it was suggested to stay at home and rest for a month and a half. It was stated that no physical exercises could be allowed until my urine was cleared of blood particles. However, they said I should increase the level of activity steadily. My doctor counseled were ibuprofen, diclofenac, or any pain killers in case the pain is intolerable among the medications.
Who assisted you at home after your illness or operation?
Before the operation, I was informed that I should spend a few days in the hospital after my kidney stones were removed. I asked who could guide me home in case my relatives are busy; however, they told me that healthcare workers are not capable of doing that. Moreover, I could not drive by myself as I had a tube in my back. After having two recovery nights at the hospital and consulting with my physiotherapist, I was eligible for discharge. Fortunately, my daughter managed to pick me up so that I did not have to drive my car or call a taxi.
Do you know of any assistance services, i.e., food, transportation, medication, that would help you stay in your home as you get older?
I have heard about services to help older people which are available after the age of 65; however, I never applied due to the lack of necessity. I believe it is an excellent opportunity for senior citizens to reduce their transportation expenses or even household maintenance. Undoubtedly, such services also include healthcare procedures which can be provided by medical or social workers at home. I think older adults can receive these options by resorting to the local social organizations or agencies that deal with such assistance. Overall, I would love to have it once I am incapable of performing daily activities.
References
Gunn, S. (2017). Education and discharge planning to prevent functional decline in the older adult, Gastroenterology Nursing, 40(4), p 272-278. Web.
Wittink, H., & Oosterhaven, J. (2018). Patient education and health literacy. Musculoskeletal Science and Practice, 38, 120-127. Web.