My 86 year old mother had (left hand side)lymp nodes removed 6 years ago. She is now in hospital and they keep taking her blood pressure and samples from her left side should I be worried?
Yes you should, they really shouldn’t be doing that and the more they do, the greater the chance of your mum developing lymphoedema. Buy your mum one of these - a warning bracelet - lymphoedema.org/Menu5/Index.asp (scroll down to find them). It’s just like a hospital tag and really obvious. Makes sure she wears it on her affected side.
Nymeria x
I agree. Every time they do it they’re putting her at risk of lymphoedema.
It should be put into her notes and maybe she needs a sign on her bed like they do for “Nil by mouth”.
Surely something like lymph node removal really should be highlighted in her record and on the computer as an alert that couldn’t possibly be missed, in the same way that I’d like to think allergies would be.
A warning bracelet would be a good idea - have a look at this one as well theidbandco.com/Axillary-Lymph-Nodes-5062 their delivery is very quick. I had one of these while I waited for my engraved stainless steel one to arrive.
Jane xxx
Awareness does need raising to this issue, after my op in hospital there was a guy who brought tea but also took blood pressure and temperature, twice he tried to take my blood pressure on the arm that had been operated. When I go to the hospital I am going to raise this issue because when you are under the influence of drugs etc you may not feel strong enough or even realise that you should be telling them not to take blood pressure on the affected arm I only knew he shouldn’t be doing it because I read all the literature I was given but there is so much info this could easily be missed. The guy also left my water in a huge water jug all the guidance says no heavy lifting, further training is needed here I think!
The bracelets are an excellent idea thanks for the link.