Since oxygen assistance was required, an oxygen generator was brought in. The care-giver was instructed on the use of this equipment and procedures to mix distilled water and oxygen in order to avoid any bleeding of nose membranes. The care-giver and volunteers were instructed on how to drain the catheter bag utilizing sterile procedures in order to prevent infections to the patient. During this period a licensed practical nurse (LPN) came to bathe the patient several times a week The care-giver and volunteers were given careful instructions on how to do this for the rest of the time. They were also trained in how to change bed clothes in a manner that would least disturb the patient. The hospice provided an air mattress to help avoid bed sores.
With guidance from hospice, the care-giver administered food and nutrition requirements to the patient. It was specified that while efforts to feed the patient be made, no force should be used in this regard
Source link: http://www.icatholic.org/indstory/2007/200743p08.html
Avoid spicy, fatty or fried foods and sugary nighttime snacks, which can cause heartburn or rapid shifts in blood sugar that wake you up in the middle of the night. A light, healthy snack, such as whole-grain crackers with low-fat milk, helps some people fall asleep.
DRINK SMART
Stop drinking at least an hour before you go to bed and reduce or eliminate alcohol and caffeine. Note: The stimulant effect of caffeine can last for hours, so steer clear of it after lunch if you're having trouble sleeping.
EXERCISE SMART
Work out regularly, but avoid strenuous activity within three hours of bedtime.
GET OUTSIDE
Exposure to sunlight increases the body's production of hormones that help you fall asleep (put on sunscreen if you'll be outside for more than 10 or 15 minutes).
USE A GOOD MATTRESS
If you're wake up stiff, numb or achy, or if you seem to get a better sleep away from home, you may need a new mattress. While brands vary widely, most are ready for replacement after five to seven years. Sags, lumps or tears are obvious signs. When shopping for a mattress, lie down on each one for a few minutes to see if it's comfortable for you.
USE A GOOD PILLOW
Aim for a cushion that holds your head in the same relationship to your shoulders and spine as when you're standing upright with good posture.
DON'T TOSS AND TURN
If you've been in bed for 20 to 30 minutes and haven't gone to sleep, go to another room and do something relaxing - read, write in a journal or listen to quiet music (no exercise, chores or horror movies). Go back to bed when you feel sleepy.
TEACH YOUR CHILDREN WELL
Put babies down in their crib while they're still awake so they'll learn to fall asleep on their own. If young kids wake up overnight, make sure they're OK, but then send them right back to bed.
MAKE SLEEP A PRIORITY
If it's time to get in bed and rest, whatever else you're doing can usually wait.
Sources: Local doctors, Better Sleep Council and National Sleep Foundation
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Source link: http://www.dailypress.com/features/health/dp-hbsummer07-self-sleep,0,3465750.story?coll=dp-sports-columnists
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