My father's lady friend had a massive stroke, can't swallow, left side paralyzed. She had a nasal feeding tube that was to be removed today and is only going to have IV for comfort. She is not a large woman. She had the stroke a week ago (Christmas Eve). She was moving to hospice today sometime. I'm praying she can't live much longer like this.
5 Treatments Older Adults May Not Need
At the meeting I would ask
What the chances of mother recovering to anything approaching a normal life? Will she ever be able to swallow?
Would this be an appropriate time to call in hospice?
If the tube is moved and she tries to take it out, will she be restrained?
What benefits will the moved tube provide?
What are the risks of having the tube in her stomach?
And a big question to talk about among family is "What would mother want?" If she has a "living will" (healthcare directive) does that cover this situation?
I am so sorry you are dealing with this heart-breaking problem. Hugs to all your family.
Doctors want to move the tube to the stomach so she can be moved from hospital into a home. She mostly sleeps and seems very weak, but sometimes she says the odd word. We have concerns with them moving the tube, as she has been on antibiotics constantly for infections ..... and only had the odd day without. Currently she has low potassium ...and has a potassium bag. We feel she is too weak for the feed to be moved but the hospital cannot shift her out while she has a nasal tube. We are going in for a meeting on Friday with all doctors ...Any suggestions ...should we let them move the feed?
I expect the IV will be kept under review, and withdrawn when appropriate. It occurs to me that, with the stroke's happening only a week ago, it's possible the IV is mainly needed to administer anti-clotting drugs to prevent another? And perhaps for pain relief - but I'm only guessing. You should feel free to ask about it - no one will think badly of you for wanting to understand the care plan, and you need to in order to help your father. I hope this passes quickly for all of you.
My heart goes out to you, your father, and his friend.