Applying Elastic Stockings

        Some clients need to wear support stockings because of circulatory problems. The elasticity helps to stimulate blood flow and prevent swelling of the feet, ankles, and legs. The elastic stockings should be applied in the morning and removed at bedtime.

        (NOTE: If these are “prescription” stockings, they are not to be applied by the PCW. The PCW can apply only those that can be purchased over the counter).

        Ideally, elastic stockings are applied before the client gets out of bed, before swelling can occur. Check the care plan for each client’s specific routine.

Procedure:

• Explain the procedure to the client.
• Wash your hands.
• Position the client on their back or seated in a chair with feet elevated on a footstool.
• Hold the foot and heel of the stocking. Gather the rest of the stocking in your hands.
• Support the client’s foot at the heel.
• Slip the foot of the stocking over the toes, foot, and heel.
• Pull the stocking up over the leg. It should be even and snug, without wrinkles.
• Repeat these steps for the other leg.
• Wash your hands.

        Some elastic stockings are open-toed. Others have a small circular opening, which will be at the base of the client’s toes. To remove the stockings, grasp them at the top edge and slowly peel them down the leg and off the foot, turning them inside out.

        To launder, wash in warm soapy water by hand and rinse well; or use the delicate cycle of the washing machine. Hang to dry.

Assisting with a Hearing Aid

        Hearing aids are used by some clients to amplify sound. They do not correct physical hearing problems or make speech clearer. They amplify both speech and background noises, so the person with a hearing aid may not want to use it in situations where there are many people or a great deal of background noise.

        Hearing aids are made of molded plastic and are battery-operated. They have on/off switches and volume controls. Occasionally, hearing aids will malfunction.

        Several factors may contribute to the problem and need to be checked:

• The battery may need to be replaced or re-positioned;
• The earpiece may need to be cleaned;
• The switch could be off or the hearing aide could need repair.
• Hearing aids are expensive and need to be handled carefully. They are tiny and easily misplaced.
• Always ask the client about their routine hearing aid storage place and follow the established routine.
• Assist with regular cleaning but do not immerse it in water. Use a damp cloth and mild soap.
• Follow the tips for communicating with the hearing-impaired, Section I.

Procedure for Hearing Aid Placement

•       Wash your hands.
•       Check the appliance to see that it is clean and in working order.
•       After testing, turn it off or to the lowest volume setting.
•       Hand the appliance to the client for insertion, OR Grasp the device and gently insert the tapered end into the ear canal.
•       Gently twist the ear mold into the curve of the ear, slightly pulling the earlobe downward and outward with your other hand.
•       Have the client turn on the hearing aid and adjust the volume.
•       Wash your hands.