Spinal cord injuries are most often the cause of quadriplegia, but it can also be caused by nerve diseases such as multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's Disease). It is the paralysis of all four limbs (both legs and arms). According to Spinal Injury Network, quadriplegia can have different levels of functionality; the location of the injury on the spine will be the determining factor. Quadriplegia usually affects other bodily functions as well.
As a caregiver, you must remain strong to provide the needed care and support. Dealing with this type of condition you will also need patience and endurance. Below are some of the physical and emotional difficulties and challenges that will arise.
The Physical Challenges Involved in Being a Caregiver to a Quadriplegic Patient
This aspect of being a caregiver to a quadriplegic patient at home is obvious; the patient must at times be lifted from the bed to the wheelchair. He must also be rolled over so he is not lying on the same body part for too long a period. The importance of this is to prevent bedsores, or at least keep them to a minimum. These sores, if not treated properly, can become ulcerated and dangerous. Often, if the patient gets bedsores, it is very difficult to clear them up. Along with this, the patient will need to be lifted and rolled over to bathe, and moved into a sitting position to eat. In addition, the patient's limbs must be exercised daily. It's important to have a hospital bed for the patient, as well as a commode; it will make your life easier and his more comfortable.
There are many more procedures and techniques you will need to learn to ensure the patients well-being and safety. You will also need to be careful not to injure your own back when moving a quadriplegic patient. Unfortunately, there is not much information online about the physical aspect of caring for a quadriplegic loved one at home. If you are a caregiver you must have the patient under the care of a qualified specialist. This specialist will certainly be able to provide you with any needed information on care giving and the proper techniques involved in the patients care. This will be necessary to ensure the patient's safety and your own.
The Emotional Difficulties of Being a Caregiver to a Paralyzed Patient
The emotional aspect of being the caregiver for a quadriplegic loved one can be overwhelming and much more difficult than the physical aspect. Watching someone you love in this condition is distressing to say the least. And, you need to be both physically and emotionally strong to handle it. Support groups are an excellent way to help deal with the overwhelming feelings that may arise. Talking to others in the same circumstances is always helpful. You will also be able to learn coping techniques and handling techniques from those with more experience.
Also under this category is when or if the time arrives that the patient needs more than you can provide. With some quadriplegic conditions such as multiple sclerosis, there may be a progressive deteriorating element involved. The patient may worsen and be unable to eat and/or have difficulty breathing. For everyone concerned, the patient needs to be in the hands of a specialized medical team.
Being a caregiver to a quadriplegic loved one is not for everyone. It can be an emotional and physical strain that is unbearable for some. If you attempt it and find you are unable to provide what is needed, try not to feel guilty. Support groups would be very helpful in this area also.
To Learn More About Quadriplegia you can Visit:
American Spinal Cord Association
Atlanta, Georgia, 30309-1402
Phone: 1-404-355-9772
Web Address: www.asia-spinalinjury.org
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
http;//www.nationalmssociety.org
Karen Cioffi-Ventrice - Karen Cioffi-Ventrice is an author, writer-for-hire, and freelance writer. To help others become informed about Multiple Sclerosis, ...
