Caring for Amputees

Caring for Amputees in the Home Health Setting

* Leg, foot, and toe amputees

* Caring for the amputated extremity

* Check orders to make see whether or not the extremity needs to be elevated or not.

* Report any pain to the nurse to help with pain management.

* Check the wound for any signs of rash or infection.

* Redness, discoloration, swelling, drainage, etc.

* Clean the amputation sight according to care plan.

* Ensure any prosthetics stay clean and any padding is secure and not too worn.

* Caring for the amputee

* May need to assist with ambulation.

* Ensure the home is free of clutter since walking may already be more difficult.

* Ensure any assisting devices are in good repair and well within reach.

* i.e. walkers, crutches, canes

* Report any setbacks or unusual issues with ambulation to the nurse.

* Arm, hand, and finger amputees

* Caring for the extremity

* Again, keep amputation site clean and repot any abnormalities to the nurse.

* Report pain to nurse.

* Caring for the amputee

* May need to assist with getting dressed, moving items, eating.

* Encourage the patient to be as independent as possible.

* With any amputee, be sure to check vitals and report any changes to the nurse

* A big aspect is diabetes and amputees.

* A lot of non-compliant diabetics end up with amputation, especially later in life.

* Encourage diabetics to eat a strict, healthy diet

* Check blood sugar (if checked off) and report any abnormalities to the nurse.

* Report any pressure ulcers, laceration, or infections immediately as this can lead to gang green and eventually amputation.