In nursing, it is essential to ensure that patients are safe,
especially those with mobility challenges. Certain types of equipment can make
everyday activities easier and reduce the risk of falls or injuries.
Below are some important tools and their uses:
Grab Bar: A
grab bar is a sturdy metal or plastic bar attached to walls in bathrooms.
It helps patients hold on for support when standing up, sitting down, or
moving around in the bathroom.
Non-Slip Mat:
This is a special mat placed on the floor, usually in a bathroom or
shower. It has a textured surface that prevents slipping, providing extra
safety for patients.
Raised Toilet Seat:
A raised toilet seat is an attachment placed on top of a regular toilet.
It makes the toilet higher, making it easier for patients to sit and
stand, especially for those with joint pain or limited mobility.
Shower Chair: A
shower chair is a seat designed for use in the shower. It allows patients
who cannot stand for long periods to sit while bathing, ensuring comfort
and safety.
Walking Frame:
A walking frame, also called a walker, is a supportive frame used to help
patients walk. It provides balance and stability for people recovering
from surgery or with mobility difficulties.
By understanding how to use these tools, nurses can help patients
maintain independence and prevent accidents in their daily lives. This
equipment plays a crucial role in patient care and safety.
Taking care of
a wound is an important skill for nurses. It helps prevent infection and
promotes faster healing. Below are some steps to properly care for a wound
using key terms related to nursing.
First, check
the wound to see its size, depth, and condition. Look at the surrounding
skin for any signs of being inflamed, such as redness, swelling, or
warmth. This could mean the area is irritated or infected. Also, check for discharge,
which is fluid coming from the wound. If there is thick, yellow, or green pus
with a strong odour, it may be a sign of infection.
Next, clean the
wound carefully. Apply a clean dressing to protect the area from germs
and promote healing. Use a bandage to secure the dressing and keep it in
place. If the wound was closed with sutures, follow instructions to keep
them clean and dry until they are removed or dissolve naturally.
Healthy tissue
will begin to grow and repair the wound over time. Nurses must monitor the
healing process and provide appropriate care to avoid complications. If the
wound becomes worse or shows signs of infection, professional medical help is
required.
By using these
steps and tools, nurses ensure proper wound care for their patients.
This must be
her house. I can see her car in the garage.
He must live near here because he always walks to work.
Come inside and get warm. You must be freezing out there!
We use must when
we feel sure that something is true or it's the only realistic probability.
might, may, could
She's not
here yet. She might be stuck in traffic.
He's not answering. He could be in class.
We regret to inform you that some services may be delayed due to the bad
weather.
They all have
the same meaning, but may is more formal than might and could.
We use might, may or could to
say that we think something is possible but we're not sure.
can't
It can't be
far now. We've been driving for hours.
She can't know about the complaint. She's promoted him to team leader.
It can't be easy for him, looking after three kids on his own.
We use can't when
we feel sure that something is improbable.
Collaborative Online Exercise about modal verbs of speculation and deduction
Nurse: Good morning, this is _________. This is Nurse _______ ______. How can I help you?
Patient: Good morning. I’d like to make an appointment with _______, please.
Nurse: Sure, may I have your name, please?
Patient: Yes, my name is _______.
Nurse: Thank you, _________. Let me check ______ schedule. Please (2)_____for a moment.
Patient: Okay, I’ll (2)_____.
Nurse: Thank you for waiting. ___________ has an opening _______at _______. Does that work for you?
Patient: Yes, that’s perfect. Actually, can I also have the ______ number of the billing department?
Nurse: Of course! The _____ is_______.
Patient: Can you _______ to the billing department?
Nurse: It'll be a pleasure.
Patient: I will appreciate it.
Nurse: Can I help you with anything else?
Patient: No, thank you. If I need anything else, I’ll call back.
Nurse: You’re welcome, _______. Have a good day!
Exercise f on page 34
Phone
Conversation Between a Nurse and a Caller
Nurse: Good
afternoon, this is St. Mary's Hospital, Nurse Helen
speaking. How may I help you?
Caller:
Hello, Nurse Helen. My name is John Miller. I'm
calling to get some information about my sister, Emily Miller,
who was admitted yesterday.
Nurse:
Hi, Mr. Miller. I understand you're concerned, but unfortunately,
I can't provide any specific information about our patients over the phone due
to privacy regulations.
Caller:
Oh, I see. That makes sense. Is there any other way I can get an update?
Nurse:
I’d recommend giving Emily a call directly to check on her. She
should be able to share any information she's comfortable with.
Caller:
Alright, thank you, Nurse Helen. I appreciate the help.
Nurse:
No problem, Mr. Miller. Let me check the extension number for Emily’s
room. [A short pause] Okay, please hold while I put you through to her
room.
Caller:
Thank you, Nurse Helen.
Nurse:
You're welcome. Connecting you now.
Caller:
Thanks again!
Phone
Conversation Between a Nurse and a Caller
Nurse: Good
afternoon, this is _______ Hospital, Nurse _______
speaking. How may I help you?
Caller:
Hello, Nurse _______. My name is _______. I'm
calling to get some information about my _______, who was
admitted _______.
Nurse:
Hi, _______. I understand you're concerned, but unfortunately, I
can't provide any specific information about our patients over the phone due to
privacy regulations.
Caller:
Oh, I see. That makes sense. Is there any other way I can get an update?
Nurse:
I’d recommend giving _______ a call directly to check on her. She
should be able to share any information she's comfortable with.
Caller:
Alright, thank you, Nurse _______. I appreciate the help.
Nurse:
No problem, _______. Let me check the extension number for _______’s
room. [A short pause] Okay, please hold while I put you through to _______
room.
Pain is a
complex sensation that can be categorized into various types, each with its
unique characteristics. Tingling often feels like a "pins and
needles" sensation, typically associated with nerve compression or damage.
It can be momentary or chronic, depending on the underlying issue.
Sharp
pain is intense and sudden, often indicating acute injury or illness. This type
of pain can be localized and is usually severe enough to prompt immediate
attention. In contrast, stabbing pain feels piercing and can occur in
specific areas, such as the chest or abdomen, often linked to conditions like
appendicitis or angina.
Other forms
include aching, which is a dull, persistent discomfort often related to
muscle strain or fatigue, and burning pain, characterized by a searing
sensation associated with nerve damage.
Finally, throbbing
pain has a rhythmic quality and is commonly experienced during migraines or
other vascular conditions, affecting the overall quality of life.
Pain relief has
evolved significantly over the centuries. Early methods included acupuncture, a
traditional Chinese practice using needles to stimulate specific points on the
body, believed to balance energy and alleviate pain. Aromatherapy utilizes essential
oils for therapeutic effects, promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort.
Heat packs have
long been used to soothe sore muscles, while massage therapy, an ancient
technique, helps relieve tension and enhance circulation. The term analgesia
refers to the absence of pain, achieved through various means, including
medications.
In modern
medicine, a syringe driver administers continuous doses of pain relief
medications, ensuring consistent management for chronic pain sufferers.
Together, these methods highlight the rich history and diverse approaches to
alleviating pain throughout time.
