My Patient Will Die Tonight

ZadieC
ZadieC Posts: 1
in Introduce Yourself
I have a patient who is 850lbs in multi-system organ failure and will most likely pass away in the next few hours. I have been horrified at being 60 lbs above the upper limit of ideal weight for my height but this patient has really made me think about when that switch, the "I give a *kitten*" switch, flips over to "I don't give a *kitten*". I feel so sad for this person and my heart aches for her but it was a real shock, as I thought about how that happens, to realize that my switch was about to flip. I'm on my second day here and the food record has been very eye opening in a gross kind of "I can't believe I eat like that" way. So at age 52, I might not get back to being a 115lbs weight lifter but I do hope to reach my first 15 lb goal. I'll cheer for you if you cheer for me.

Replies

  • Cullinanmarti
    Cullinanmarti Posts: 72 Member
    I am a home are nurse and my specialty is CHF and diabetic patients. Since I have both these conditions, my bosses thought I could speak from experience. What I have found is the determining factor in recovery is people who have an internal locus of control are much better prepared to participate in their own recovery. You seem to have to have the belief that you are capable of change and have the ability to control internal change before you will have successful outcomes. Some people never seem to be able to develop that need skill of self control of behavior. If you expect to world, be that your doctoe, your family, friends, or caregiver, to cause change in your life, you will be disappointed and are assuring yourself of failure. It really is about self actualization and the belief in your ability to change yourself. The other people can support you but , in the end, it is up to you to do the work. The good news is that you get the credit for the change too!!!! I hope I can help and supprt y on your personal path toward health
  • pholbert
    pholbert Posts: 575 Member
    Determination is the key. This site will help you get there. I am trying to maintain now, but I have lost 48lbs, 35 since I join this site. I still log everyday here because I know it will help me to maintain. You can add me as a friend if you want. Would be happy to support you in your effort.
  • dmpizza
    dmpizza Posts: 3,321 Member
    Sorry for your issues.


    Add me if you want!

    I try and encourage people.
  • forbiddendonut
    forbiddendonut Posts: 60 Member
    That is so sad, and so preventable! My heart breaks when I hear stories like that. :(
  • IHAVEPMS247
    IHAVEPMS247 Posts: 70 Member
    My sympathies go with her family and also to you as a a caregiver. Hugs and prayers. God bless. Kathy
  • MissJanet55
    MissJanet55 Posts: 457 Member
    Wow, my heart breaks for this woman. I can't imagine the kind of suffering she has experienced, both emotionally and physically, to get there.

    Good luck with her, and with making your own changes.
  • Sunflower794
    Sunflower794 Posts: 1
    Hang in there. It is tough, but as my doctor told me years ago, it took time to put it on, so it takes time to take it off. No quick fixes or it lasts only for a short period. Your health is priority and 52 is still fairly young, so just do it! We're all here for you.
  • famousmonstr76
    famousmonstr76 Posts: 3
    My grandfather told me long ago that good will always come from bad. Your patient's unfortunate outcome has made an impact and possibly changed your outlook on something for a long time. Many do not realize it as important until it is too late. Amazing how much you can accomplish when you take it day by day. Before you know it, you'll be at your goal.
  • jakeVScalories
    jakeVScalories Posts: 107 Member
    @famousmonstr7, true words for sure
  • NualaTW
    NualaTW Posts: 205 Member
    I just keep in mind my doctor telling me that even though I must lose more, even losing 10% of my total body weight can make a big difference to my overall health. I'm aiming for that first 10% (first goal), and I'll go from there. Not an easy process. If it was, there wouldn't be those like your patient who suffer and eventually die.

    I've been here on MFP for almost one month now, and the logging of food and support from those who've "friended" me has made it seem a bit easier. Feel free to add me, and my food diary is public, if you ever want some ideas for meals. :)
  • starvinkevin
    starvinkevin Posts: 331
    HIPAA!!!!!!
  • dargriff60
    dargriff60 Posts: 8 Member
    You are doing the exact correct thing. We are all here for you.

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