Table of Contents
What should you not say to an amputee?
Avoid saying, ‘You’re an inspiration’ or, ‘Good for you’. While it’s a kind-hearted gesture, some amputees may find it patronising. Many don’t consider themselves disadvantaged because they’re missing a limb.
What is the most serious immediate complication following an amputation?
Complications
- heart problems such as heart attack.
- deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- slow wound healing and wound infection.
- pneumonia.
- stump and “phantom limb” pain.
What is an AmpuShield?
Based on patient feedback, we at Hanger Clinic developed a special type of RRD, called the AmpuShield®. This adjustable, removable device is often worn over a transparent silicone liner. The benefits of using RRDs are that they help: Prevent your knee from bending. Manage and reduce post-operative swelling.
How do you deal with a traumatic amputation?
Care for a partially amputated body part
- Elevate the injured area.
- Wrap or cover the injured area with a sterile dressing or clean cloth. Apply pressure if the injured area is bleeding.
- Gently splint the injured area to prevent movement or further damage.
What is a rigid dressing?
The Removable Rigid Dressing is used as a postoperative dressing for below knee amputation. The purpose of the dressing is to control the swelling that is common following amputation surgery.
How do you cope with the loss of a limb?
Limb Loss and Grief: 5 Coping Strategies for New Amputees 1 Recognize your feelings. 2 Don’t hold in negative feelings – express them. 3 Focus on the journey, not the destination. 4 Talk to someone who’s been through an amputation. 5 Find a purpose that gives your life meaning.
How can I help someone who has lost a loved one?
People who are grieving may need to tell the story over and over again, sometimes in minute detail. Be patient. Repeating the story is a way of processing and accepting the death. With each retelling, the pain lessens. By listening patiently and compassionately, you’re helping your loved one heal. Ask how your loved one feels.
What is the relationship between amputation and grief?
The relationship between amputation, grief, and depression is very real and, often, very strong. If you’re experiencing grief or even battling clinical depression after limb loss, please know that you’re not alone. Many limb loss survivors go through this. It doesn’t mean that you are weak in any way, or that you’re being negative.
What do you do when a child loses a sibling?
After a loss—particularly of a sibling or parent—children need support, stability, and honesty. They may also need extra reassurance that they will be cared for and kept safe. As an adult, you can support children through the grieving process by demonstrating that it’s okay to be sad and helping them make sense of the loss.