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Dementia, Cancer, a Colostomy and now a Catheter
Caregivers | Last Active: Oct 18 2:21pm | Replies (16)Comment receiving replies
Thank you for the input. I think it is funny that although I am an expert in some of the aspects of his care, I am still a boob with others. Although only a few days into this new experience, I know the old status quo has changed drastically. Last night, an unused pink walker that I replaced with a rollator for my use that had not been given to Goodwill became part of an improvised "Wall of China" to keep him from trying to get up to go to the bathroom. Boy, does dementia put an additional layer of difficulty to everything. For good measure, I locked the rollator near his feet when the pink beauty proved insufficient. By using them together when I pop him into bed tonight, I hope our sleep will not be disturbed by his mind insisting he has to pee. Also, I ordered some long shorts that unsnap at the seams, protein drinks for a poor appetite, and new elastic leg supports for the catheter because, for comic relief, his colostomy failed in the doctor's office while they were setting him up. So we went home with poop all over it. Sometimes you have to laugh. It is a good thing I have a highly developed sense of black humor. -- You have given me the wonderful gift of knowing that someone else has survived with their humanity intact. GloRo
Replies to "Thank you for the input. I think it is funny that although I am an expert..."
@gloro You’ve been given some very good suggestions by @ayan364364 . I’ll just add a few tips from a nursing point of view , if that’s OK with @ayan364364!
For the Catheter itself: when securing the catheter to your SO’s leg , check that it isn’t pulled tight. This could injure the skin of the end of the penis. Just loop it casually before securing it.
And don’t pull the strap tight. It should be secure enough so it’s not slipping down the leg.
Color of urine: this will sound funny, but nurses and doctors use the colors of wine to describe the color of urine! White Zinfandel for light yellow urine; rose for urine with a small amount of blood; burgundy for urine dark with a lot of blood, may also have some clots.
If you’re not sure if you requested a home care nurse’s visit, just call the doctor’s office again and repeat your request. This nurse will be very helpful in teaching care of the catheter.
You’ll catch on easily! You are doing a great job!
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Dear GloRo,
While I don't have any helpful input on this particular catheter topic, I'd like you to know that you have been my inspiration. As I'm juggling all the caregiving duties, struggling between being on the receiving end of his daily rants (can be very miserable at times) and maintaining my own sanity and positive attitude, you are always on my mind, and this thought of you gives me strength to carry on.
You are an amazing person. Sending you virtual hugs...