Arm Measurement

Judi57

Today the palliative care nurse practitioner visited.   He does arm measurements since my husband is unable to stand and be on a scale.  

Does anyone know that a significant arm measurement drop is? The circumference of my husband's arm dropped from 37 cm to 34.5 cm in two months.  That equals to about an inch.  He is going to refer him to the access team for regular hospice since he isn't eating as much and is sleeping more.

Any thoughts on this.  I understand if you don't answer or know anything.

Judi

dayn2nite2

That's pretty significant in 2 months.

Judi57

Thank you for answering.  I thought it was a big drop too but wanted to hear opinions of others.

Jo C.

That is indeed a significant change; the Palliative NP is right on spot referring to Hospice.  They will bring much needed services and equipment at no charge and best of all, will bring support not only for your husband, but also for you.

One thing I always wondered about arm measurements; what about the patients with "bat wing" upper arms that jiggle and what about possible fluid retention which can skew the measurement.

So hope that all of the RNs are on top of such instances; especially the fluid retention dynamic.

Let us know how it goes with Hospice; I so hope it is a blessng for both yourself and your dear husband.

J.

Judi57

Thank you, Jo, for responding.  I know I don't post much, but I'm glad this forum is here for when I do.

I just talked to Hospice.  It's nice they are so receptive to helping.  They will be stopping by tomorrow to evaluate him around 1:00.  They have done this a few times, so I just hope he is accepted this time.   His NP indicated that, though this isn't the final stretch for him, my DH probably wouldn't live to next fall.  That's sad for me to think about, but with his not eating, sleeping more, and losing weight, it doesn't sound good.

Today I ordered a little 30 second recorder from Amazon.  I'm going to tape his voice so I don't forget how he sounds.

Judi

Jo C.

Dear Judi, it is good that Hospice will soon be with you to do an assessment and hope that all goes well with that this time around.  When a person is accepted into Hospice service, they are swift in their action to get everything in the house and in place to bring best service for all needs. 

Do know that not all Hospices are the same; some are far more beneficent than others and more accepting of admission to service and more. If this does not go the way it should, it is an option to call a different Hospice for assessment.  Some of our Members have done that and been successful.  Just an idea if needed.

You are a very dear and loving wife; so hope you have found just the right recorder to enable you to fulfill your wish to have your beloved husband's voice with you into the future.

Please do keep in touch and let us know how you are and how things are going; we truly do care.

With warmest of thoughts being sent your way along with a big hug,

J.