In a message dated 2/3/2004 11:41:28 AM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> How would you code a resident who has a tube, is no longer being fed (dying), but is > getting flushes to keep the tube patent in case she needs any pain meds? For eating > would she be 8/8 or 4/2 for the flushes? Do the flushes count as > feeding? They are not being used for hydration. > Thanks, Karen Is she on Hospice? Is she a DNR? Your message states she is no longer being fed - does that also mean no hydration either? If you are giving her flushes she is being hydrated and you are losing the body's natural response to not receiving hydration or nutrition. Please see the following website for some info on this: http://endoflifecare.tripod.com/Caregiving/id90.html I have learned from working with dying patients, doctors and hospice nurses that even small sips of water shouldn't be given for the reasons noted in the website. The flushes are something you might want to rethink. /---------------------------------------------------------- The Case Mix Discussion Group is a free service of the American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordinators "Committed to the Assessment Professional" Be sure to visit the AANAC website. Accurate answers to your questions posted to NAC News and FAQs. For more info visit us at http://www.aanac.org -----------------------------------------------------------/
