Pseudomonas Aeruginosa is a common bacterium that can cause disease.It is found in water, soil, skin flora and most man made environments in the world. ( I took this information from Wikipedia)
This bug causes a lot of damage in CF lungs. Once it is there it is really hard to get rid of. Thankfully El has not had this bug yet. Although we have been warned about it since we first found out that El has CF. I dread the day when we hear El has cultured Pseudomonas.
Physiotherapy
Part ofEl's daily regime is twice a day physio or airway clearance. This takes about 30-40 minutes each time. This is to combat the build up of thick sticky mucus on the lungs, which helps to reduce infection and prevent lung damage.
Positive Expiration Pressure (PEP)
THis involves using a special mask which El breathes into. IT opens up the small airways allowing mucus to be moved out of the lungs. This is a big part of B's physiotherapy.
PICC line
Peripherally inserted central Catheter. A form of intravenous access. El had her first PICC line this year. It was put in under a general anaethetic. It was inserted, near her elbow and went through a vein up her arm towards her chest. It was removed when she was awake.
Poop
CF affects the pancreas and makes it difficult for people with CF to absorb food. This causes lots of large, smelly, greasy stools. And when I say smelly I mean smelly!!! El'senzymes (Creon) are given to help her digest her food properly and reduce these symptoms.
PEG
Percutaneous (through the skin) Endoscopic Gastrotomy (stomach tube). This is used to give supplementary feeds to CF'ers who can't maintain their weight. Not something we need just yet.
Port
(portacath) A small deviced placed beneath the skin, providing more permanent iv access. Usually given to CF patients who require frequent iv treatment.
Information taken from wikipedia and Cystic fibrosis australia websites
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