Hell, if I'd known that....

Here are some things a lot people new to this cancer journey may now know about.

Resources available to them or just things we've learned through trial and error and wish we would have known sooner...

Did you know as a caregiver you can give hydration at home to your loved one provided they have a picc or port, a doctor's order and training usually taught right in your home?

Did you know that Curos protectors

help reduce the chance of picc and port line infection whether in a hospital or home setting?

More info can be found at http://www.curos.com

Did you know that on the weeks were there aren't chemo appointments, you could request a nurse come to your home to change their picc or port dressings and possibly save them the trip to the hospital if their not feeling up to it? 

Did you know that in some states you can receive a paycheck to stay home to care and be a personal assistant to your loved one through the department of aging?

Did you know that in some states nutritional drinks, adult disposable underwear and medical equipment from walkers to shower chairs to hospital beds are also covered by some insurances?

Did you know when it comes to ct scans and Mri's, those reports are usually available within 24-48 hrs from the time of the procedure, and the patient or caregiver with a power of attorney are completely within their right to request a copy of them from the medical records department? 

Doesn't mean you shouldn't read them with a professional wish I highly recommend, just that they are available to you if you so desire.

Did you know that when in the hospital you have the right to request a new disposable cuff or to have the cuff being used be sanitized properly?

Did you also know cross contamination of diseases like MRSA and VRE are very common in hospitals or even homes, were equipment aren't being properly sanitized from patient to patient?

Did you know you have the right to ask any medical professional to wash their hands before putting them on you?

Did you know that the normal range for 24-hour urine volume is 800 to 2000 milliliters per day (with a normal fluid intake of about 2 liters per day), Whether Iv or oral.

So If your loved one has a catheter in place don't be shy to take a look at their foley bag to make sure their kidneys are doing what their supposed to ( getting rid of all of those toxins) and letting a mmedical professional know if their not.

Did you know that 1.5 million people are harmed by preventable mediation errors every year?

 Don't be afraid to ask questions like what medications are being given and what for. If your not satisfied with the answer know you have the right to refuse and don't hesitate to ask for the doctor to come talk to you.

Did you know that a social worker at your hospital can help you apply for a disable placard for your car if your having difficulties walking great distances?

Did you know that your are your own best advocate?

Don't be afraid to ask questions and hold others accountable for their actions, because after all it is you or your loved one 's life they hold in their hands.

If you have any Did you know's that I failed to include and left out please feel free to email me at the6thopinion@gmail.com or comment below and I'll add them to this always growing list..