SN provided ongoing skilled teaching to patient and caregiver related to the SN provided skilled education on recognizing and reporting signs of infection and worsening condition for early intervention. Patient and caregiver were instructed to monitor for signs of infection, including fever or chills, new or increased pain, redness, warmth, swelling, increased drainage, or foul odor from any wound or dressing.

SN also reviewed warning signs of worsening condition, including increased fatigue or weakness, shortness of breath at rest or with minimal activity, chest pain or pressure, sudden confusion or change in mental status, decreased urine output or dark urine, and abnormal blood glucose readings (high or low), including symptoms of hypoglycemia such as shakiness, sweating, dizziness, or confusion.

Patient and caregiver were instructed to contact the home health agency or PCP promptly for new or worsening symptoms and to call 911 or go to the Emergency Room for chest pain, acute shortness of breath, fainting, sudden confusion, high fever with shaking chills, or any rapid decline in condition.

Patient and caregiver were asked to restate at least three signs of infection, two emergency warning signs, and when to call the agency versus 911. Patient and caregiver verbalized understanding with minimal cueing.