Usually I get one day (besides Sunday) scheduled off at work. This week it was Wednesday. Unfortunately, I usually have to schedule Mom's doctor visits for those mid-week days off. This past Wednesday was no exception.
I picked Mom up at the nursing center at 9 a.m., we headed to Columbus to the VA Clinic, I finally dropped her (exhausted) back at her room at 6:20 p.m. In that space of time we had an hour drive each way and 8 ( yes, EIGHT) different stops to make in the clinic. Some were just a few minutes, like turning in some paperwork and getting her fitted for a new pair of diabetic shoes. Some were intense exams. There was a complete chest x-ray and lab work ordered.
The cardiologist/pulmonologist was very concerned that our local hospital had diagnosed Mom with pneumonia in December just on the strength of an x-ray. He strongly suspects that she has advanced congestive heart failure, because he's hearing fluid around her heart as well as in her lungs. He was a very unhappy doctor! I'll have his results early next week, and then we can formulate a care plan.
I get so frustrated sometimes having to be the go-between for the nursing center, Mom's family doctor, and the VA. The nursing center wants her to only use local doctors and local hospital, but we've learned the hard way that this is not always the best care. I understand that the nursing center is a local business, but I have to place Mom's welfare above their priorities.
One of the nurses at the nursing center had the guts to get in my face Wednesday and give me a rundown on what she saw as my shortcomings as a caregiver. I'm still trying to get my emotions under control before I talk to her supervisor. (This same nurse didn't have any of the paperwork ready for me or any of Mom's medications set out for me to take with us to Columbus.) I don't mind being told if there is a concern that has arisen due to medicine changes or something like that, but this particular nurse has an "attack" attitude that really burns me.
Oh, well, I guess this is what happens when you become the "mom" to your Mom! I bet she had a few run-ins with my teachers through the years. **Grin**
Hope everybody has a great weekend!
5 comments:
I'm gonna print this out in large print for you to read in 40 years :) love you
Ahhh, Mrs. Lemon, you are SOOOO funny!
First of all, I hope you're feeling better. I can only imagine how difficult it can be being Mom to your Mom... AND having to be mediator between various health care providers. Uuugh!
It put a smile on my face to read Mrs. Lemon's comment...
I'm sincerely praying for you, Theresa. I've been where you are with my precious mother when she was still living. It can be so difficult, I know.
((HUGS)) And, no, that isn't the most desirable way to spend your day off but ya gotta do what ya gotta do, with Jesus' help. :-)
Thanks, Ladies! I am starting to feel better, FINALLY!!! My appetite is still a little off, but maybe that's not such a bad thing. **grin**
I certainly appreciate the prayers. I know I couldn't keep doing this if it weren't for His help!
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