Read story D08: On time, every time (image and text)
On time, every time
Raymond’s Parkinson’s medicines are missed during an admission for pneumonia. He becomes stiffer, has difficulty swallowing and develops delirium. Illness and medicine problems both need review.
Tell staff the person’s usual medicine times. Parkinson’s medicines need to be given on time, and swallowing problems need an urgent plan from the treating team. Some medicines used for sickness or distress worsen Parkinson’s; haloperidol must not be used. The team should involve Parkinson’s specialists when treatment needs changing.
Story text
Panel 1. Raymond has Parkinson's disease. He takes his tablets at set times, five times a day.
Panel 2. In hospital with pneumonia, his doses come late or are missed.
Panel 3. By the second day he is stiff, struggling to swallow and confused.
Panel 4.
- Brenda: His Parkinson's tablets need to be on time. When they're late, he gets very stiff.
Panel 5.
- Brenda: These are his times, and his own tablets.
- Nurse: Thank you. I'll make sure they're given on time.
Panel 6.
- Doctor: We'll also avoid anti-sickness medicines that can make Parkinson's worse.
Panel 7. The team plans safe, timely doses and reviews how medicines are given if swallowing is difficult.
Panel 8. Two days later he moves and talks more easily. The delirium is easing.
Bottom band. Parkinson’s medicines need to be given on time. Ask about the plan during illness.