FAQ & TIPS

James 5:14 Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.

FAQ

When to Contact your physician

  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Temp of 100.4 and above
  • Symptoms of dehydration- (dark color urine, dry mouth, dry eyes)
  •  Disorientation
  •  Dizziness
  •  Swelling, redness or discharge at central line site
  • Device dislodgment
  • Stool amount or number larger than typical

Tips

General

  • Seek a second opinion
  • When you can’t reach your child’s health care team, head to the emergency department
  • Always ask to understand medical decisions
  • Trust your instincts when you think something is wrong

Central Line

  • Ensure all caregivers and baby-sitters have access to your health care team contact information.
  • Keep a spare of forceps in car in case of central line break
  • If central line balloons, clamp and call provider as the line may need a repair
  • Maneuver central line upward when changing dressing to avoid line coming in contact with
    ostomy output
  • Never allow anyone to manipulate central line without gloves

Gtube

  • Always keep spare gtube in case of dislodgment
  • Always flush gtube before and after medication and feedings
  • Check balloon on gtube twice monthly to ensure appropriate amount of water is in the balloon
  • Keep gtube area clean and dry
  • Keep a spare gtube when traveling
    If leakage, foul odor or redness, alert your care provider.

Ostomy

  • Prepare ostomy appliances ahead of time to save time with changes.
  • Ensure area is clean and dry before applying new appliance.
  • Skin barriers help avoid skin breakdown such as Ilex paste, Coloplast and Cavillon skin barrier wipes and spray.
  • Decide if a 2 piece vs a 1-piece appliance is better for your child.