massage and ICU

[Hop]

can someone suggest a modality to use when someone is in icu fighting for their life on an oxygen machine after abdominal surgery?  It's too close to home for me to think clearly she does not have much time to live but i would like to do something that makes her compfortable.  is lavender ok to use for her to smell?any suggestions would be helpful.  thank you, pua

 

[Kasia]

massage and ICU

have you tried to speak to someone in hospice work?if she is terminally ill and death is somewhat imminent, i simply cannot come up with one reason to say that you should not massage to make her more comfortable.i'd think it's all about what she wants~ aroma or not, etc.

 

[curkendall16]

I agree with mush. Whatever you can do to make her comfortable. I wouldn't think anything is contrindicated when death is imminent.  

 

[Nathan M. Holden]

massage and ICU

At the very least, slowly massaging her hands would be comforting, and I can't see how that would be any problem, but of course, check with her physician...feet, arms, gentle scalp massage...whatever would not require much positioning that might add discomfort. Music played very softly, her favorites...especially if she is in a private room...an aromatherapy scent if you know that it is one that pleases her, and would be allowed. I'm sorry to hear of your impending loss, pua. I think the time you make to be there with her will be as precious as anything else you do, but massage is indeed a wonderful parting gift.

 

[Panda]

there seems to be blood pooling in her toes and some parts of her feet is it ok to try to make it move.  they have this pump that seems to massage her leg for circulation but under her feet is really white and is it ok to try to circulate it?  sincere mahalo's for the feedback and psychic gifts.

 

[Khaled]

I would think your eyes seeing what she needs, your skilled hands and the heart you have to  take care of those needs would be good for her legs and feet, especially now. I think its important to speak with her doctor, though... or to ask the nurse in charge of ICU to speak with him (or her) as the doctor sometimes must give approval of your doing that at any time. But once done, please ask that the permission is charted, so that the nurses will know you are a therapist and have approval.

 

[SteveC is a Level2]

puamaeole,     I don't think I would recommend massage as she may be likely to get a blood clot.  Lavender should be fine, just ask the staff..........nurses and Doctor's.  They'll think it's some nice perfume or something.  Light massage of the arms should be fine.  Do you know Light Healing Touch......or therapeutic touch.  it's very good for people in her circumstances.  Known to decrease pain, give relaxation.  It's easy to learn.  Find someone that knows it.  Some nurses know it.  Hope this helps and good luck.  Prayers are sent to you.Jamie :-*