Nursing Interventions for Candidiasis
September 6, 2010 | In: Nursing Interventions
Nursing Interventions: Candidiasis
- Observe standard precautions.
- Provide a nonirritating mouthwash to loosen tenacious secretions and a soft toothbrush to avoid irritation.
- Relieve mouth discomfort with a topical anesthetic, such as lidocaine at least 1 hour before meals.
- Apply cornstarch, nystatin powder, or dry padding in intertriginous areas of obese patients to prevent irritation and candidal growth.
- Record dates of I.V. catheter insertion and replace the catheter according to hospital policy to prevent phlebitis.
- Provide appropriate supportive care for patient’s with systemic infections.
- Prepare to give blood transfusions if ordered and if the patient has low platelet count.
- Frequently check the vital signs of a patient with systemic infection.
- If you note a vaginal discharge, document the color and amount.
- Carefully monitor intake and output and potassium levels while the patient is receiving medications.
- If the patient has renal involvement, carefully monitor blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and urine
- Assess the patient with candidiasis for underlying systemic causes, such as diabetes mellitus, infection, or immune dysfunction.
- Demonstrate comprehensive oral hygiene practices, and have the patient perform a return demonstration.
- Recommend that the patient use alkaline mouth care products because increased acidity promotes candidal growth.
- Tell the patient who’s using nystatin solution to swish it around in his mouth for several minutes before swallowing.
- Suggest a soft diet for the patient with severe dysphagia.