Hospice has advised I keep her pain meds on a regular schedule (no longer “as needed”) to keep a steady level of pain relief in her system. That keeps her sleepy and apparently pain-free when she is undisturbed and resting. But when I have to move her, for example to reposition her, she cries out in pain. This morning I just lifted her arm a tiny bit as I was getting ready to change her position and she cried out in tears. She can’t express herself verbally under the circumstances. She’s not taking in much food or liquid but she still likes pudding so I've been able to crush up her pills and give them to her in pudding. But I don’t know how long that will work. This is hard, I knew you guys would understand that, and for those who pray, I appreciate the prayers. I don’t like to see her in pain.
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother in law.
I was very close to my mother in law. She died many years ago in February so I guess her patron will be St. Valentine. It’s appropriate, because her heart was filled with love.
St. Patrick was remarkable. I suppose that I am a bit biased, I am Irish ☘️. So I believe that your mother in law will be in good hands.
My mom has severe arthritis in her knees and hips. We rub over-the-counter pain reliever cream with lidocaine on her sore joints before we move her. It seems to help some.
Also before you pick up her arm or do anything else tell her what you are going to be doing. And if possible maybe gently rub the area or warm it to get some blood circulation going and warm the muscles before you move her. Also the "hands on" will give a gentle indication that movement will come soon.
LORD Jesus - Thank you that this dear one is being well-cared for by family. Help her to be comfortable. Help those who are caring for her to find methods and medications to reduce pain. Bring her to your side in a manner that brings peace for all. AMEN
Mother was frantically grinding up his Lipitor and forcing it down him. I gave her a taste of the concoction she'd made and said "oh, that's so awful"---and WHY was she giving a man in Hospice something for high cholesterol???
The only thing that I could do was dose him with morphine--wait about 15 minutes and do the washing or little bit of movement that he could bear.
You may want to ask hospice to prescribe her medications in liquid form, or they can even put in a midline that would allow you to put her medications directly into her vein. That will make it much easier for her and for you. I'm sorry that you are having to go through this, but know that you will be blessed beyond measure, for taking such good care of your MIL. I am lifting you and her up in prayer right now. God bless you.