RDNS 2009 Annual Report - Royal District Nursing Service

mid-morning10.02 amIt’s just after 10 and Alison has swiftly visited another client before arriving at Ada’s house. Ada squintsslightly as she ushers Alison into the kitchen, joking about the ‘immaculate degeneration’ that affectsher eyesight. But it is for a nasty leg ulcer that Alison is visiting today. Three times a week for almostthree months Ada has been visited by RDNS to attend to the angry sore that begun with a knock to herlower leg. Alison carefully removes the bandages and delicately tends the almost healed wound. Shelooks pleased with the progress and happily confirms with Ada that she will need only two visits a weekfor a few more weeks before the wound is completely healed. Ada looks equally pleased as Alisonrelaces the compression stocking that helps prevent her leg from swelling.10.26 am“Come in if you’re good looking!” is the lively call through the kitchenwindow. Alison responds to the cheeky invitation from Jean witha broad grin, and enters via the back door of her home. Jean hasdementia but she is able to remain at home thanks to the supportof her family and also that of RDNS. Jean has already been visitedthis morning by one of RDNS’ Community Care Aides to help showerher: it is now time for her to take her medications and attend to hereye drops. Jean is in fine spirits and, amidst the swift but detailedprocess of checking medication charts and assembling her tablets,the conversation flows warmly. Her home shows the evidence of hercondition: hand-written notes on walls and appliances reminding herof what to do but, as she talks and enthuses about her upcomingmeal at the Dingley pub, there is a strong impression of happinessand contentment. Alison completes her visit and bids Jean farewell.The Dingley pub beckons, but so do Alison’s other clients.Royal District Nursing Service – Annual Report 2009|7