I admit I've never been nearly as handy with my hands as I'd like. Learning how to crochet was a major undertaking. And I have never been one to untangle a mechanical dilemma of any kind. But, really...?
Even with a couple of church member nurses present and a small assembly of other interested onlookers, I have had dubious success with getting this simple operation completed. Twice, no less! It really is quite embarrassing, not to mention heartbreaking. Yesterday Dean had to miss his first potluck dinner after church in several months. We've always had to leave right after the worship service to get back to the care center. And now that he's on five shots a day, it really is important that I learn to do this so he can stay away till his three o'clock shot.
It's all about the training though, I know. So far, it's been pretty haphazard stuff. One can't expect a harried nurse, who's busy giving hundreds of these pricks and shots a day to slowly and methodically allow me to learn how to do it on their watch. I really need a more thorough sit-down, hands-on, demonstration and practice training session, especially considering my ineptness with doing anything with my hands. (With the exception of typewriting, I sweat when I have to screw in a lightbulb.)
This experience, while increasing my appreciation for God's patience with my stumbling attempts to do the right thing, has also reminded me of the necessity of a recent piece of legislation that passed through our state of Nebraska last year. It's called the Assisting Caregiver Transitions Act, requiring hospitals to give the training needed to caregivers before they take their loved one home. We caregivers can't be expected to become instant medical technicians overnight. It takes practice.
And that's just what I'm going to continue to do. Practice, practice, practice, until I get this diabetes monster, in the form of an insulin pen, on the floor, begging for mercy!
4 comments:
It is hard. I've only given myself shots, so I can only imagine giving them to someone else. I wonder if it's possible to get him on a pen instead of a syringe?
That's the sad part,Laura. It IS a pen! The first time I wasn't pushing hard enough on the end of it (let alone holding it right, I know realize after another demonstration), and my daughter had to jump in and finish it. The second time, I messed up and didn't have the reader set right (and they only sent me one test strip). Besides that when I went to give him the basic dose, I didn't have it screwed on right, so not sure how much insulin he got. They suggested I bring him home before eating, so they could get another reading. Just simple mess-ups, but you live and learn! *sigh*
I have a diabetic kitty cat that I rescued/adopted in 2009...2 shots daily, & I used to hate shots! Luckily, he cooperates, & even reminds me when it is close to shot time by meowing. (I've even accidentally shot through him & into my own finger!) it does get easier!
Thanks for the encouragement. Problem is I don't get to practice but once a week. But know I'll eventually get the hang of it. So many steps to follow!
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