My stepfather had to be admitted into a rehab facility one week ago because of a large diabetic foot ulcer wound which has MRSA. He needs IV antibiotics administered. He did OK for the first few days, a little decline but that’s to be expected. Over the last few days though he has made a rapid decline in that he hardly speaks and has trouble understanding what’s being said. Today he ate only a few bites of breakfast and no lunch, and he wants to sleep all the time. Is this something to be concerned about or is this normal behavior for someone entering a new facility?
& can progress to amputation. He may be developing sepsis (system wide infection),or he could be having low or high blood sugar swings which is harder to control as when a diabetic gets an infection it can affect blood sugars.
These are a life threatening illnesses & your dad is very sick.
Does he have Advanced Directives or a Living Will? It may be a good time to make sure his final wishes are known re resuscitation & when to stop treatment.
I hope he improves.
Try to get protein in him, engage him as much as possible and have as many visitors as possible.
I believe my friend had given up because I was the only one that would visit because everyone was frightened of the MRSA. Her family stood at the door one time talking at her. I have never seen anything so sad, her reaching out to them and they were not willing to suit up and touch her. I suited up and gave her as much physical contact as possible, the nurses said she was only peaceful when I was with her. They didn't even go see her in the hospice facility.
So give him a reason to recover if at all possible.
Wishing you all the best, my friend, and sending you a big hug
Where was he living before?
MRSA is very difficult to treat. Boston, how was his behavior and appetite before?
Stepdad developed MRSA. He ended up in the hospital for two weeks.
Are they keeping a good check on his sugar levels? I’m guessing you can’t get blood work done more frequently to determine if infection is worse/sepsis developing/kidney failure is occurring?
Sending you a big hug!!!
His body is battling an infection, pretty serious one at that. So it is understandable that he is tired and wants to sleep.
Try encouraging the eating but do not force it. If he is entering EOL (End of Life) his body will not require food and it would do more harm than good to feed him.
Keep an eye on this. If you fee up to it call in Hospice. They will help you as well as him. They will answer your questions and make him comfortable. It is never to early to contact Hospice he may not be ready but they will let you know that.
See All Answers