Respiratory Home Care

“The nurse’s role begins with implementing specific medical therapies and providing nursing care to meet the child’s physiologic and psychosocial needs” (London, Ladewig, Ball , and Bindler, 2007, p. 1430, para 2). Respiratory therapy treatments, medications, and the diet are coordinated in order to promote optimal body function of the child. According to London et al (2007) psychosocial support and reinforcement of the child’s daily care needs are important in preparation for home care. Respiratory therapy treatments, including chest physiotherapy, are done before meals to clear secretions because coughing may stimulate vomiting. Medications are administered orally, intravenous and inhalation. Children with CF have increased clearance
of many antibiotics therefore they need higher doses and longer treatments. Problems with digestion are eased with the use of pancreatic enzymes, which is individualized based on weight and any digestive problems. The goal is that the child will have almost normal appearing stools and adequate weight gain. Fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) are taken to prevent deficiency. A diet high in calories calorie and well-balanced is preferred for CF children. Psychosocial support for parents and children with CF is essential as CF causes anxiety and fear in both the child and parents. Issues parents and children deal with include body image from stools and odor, frequent hospitalizations and the fatal nature of the disease process. Parents may have feelings of guilt and blame themselves for the child’s condition. Caring for a child with CF can be very expensive and draining on the families budget. Referring the family to social services for financial support may be necessary. Teaching on chest physiotherapy techniques and the child’s nutritional status is important. Teaching should be age appropriate and include activities to help improve lung function, endurance and airway clearance.