Hey folks.. I'm very happy to say that Medtronic reps (Ben & Janelle) met with me last month to talk about how to provide a better orientation to the procedure (including pain management, other treatment options, etc). In the process, we developed the idea of a "Pre Trial" checklist for patients who are considering Interstim. I'd love to see your comments on this. I think it's really GOOD!
----------------------------------
Pre Test Stimulation Checklist
1. Have you considered and tried other conservative treatments (not necessarily in this order):
a. DMSO
b. Elmiron
c. Antihistamines
d. Antidepressants
e. Hydrodistension
f. Pelvic Floor Therapies
g. Diet Modification
h. Pain care
i. Self help
2. Have you watched the InterStim patient video?
3. Have you read the patient guide to the test stimulation?
4. Have you talked with other patients who have experience with InterStim (both successes and failures) your physician may be able to organize this?
5. Have you discussed any concerns with your physician?
6. Have you discussed pain care both during and after the trial. Do you have a specific plan? If so, what is it?
7. Are you aware of what you should and should not do during the 3-5 day test stimulation period (See Patient Guide to Test Stimulation)?
8. Have you agreed a “safe word” with your physician to have the test stimulation procedure stopped if the pain is no longer bearable?
9. It may be advisable to bring a relative or friend to lend support and to drive you home.
10. Are you aware of the patient services telephone number?
11. Are you aware where to get support after hours?
12. Do you know how to operate the test stimulator?
13. Fill in voiding diaries before and during test stimulation!
14. Has your physician discussed the complications that can occur with this therapy?
15. In some instances (when the lead moves) a second test stimulation may be recommended.
--------------------------------------
Comments? Suggestions?? Would this have helped you while you were considering it??
Jill
----------------------------------
Pre Test Stimulation Checklist
1. Have you considered and tried other conservative treatments (not necessarily in this order):
a. DMSO
b. Elmiron
c. Antihistamines
d. Antidepressants
e. Hydrodistension
f. Pelvic Floor Therapies
g. Diet Modification
h. Pain care
i. Self help
2. Have you watched the InterStim patient video?
3. Have you read the patient guide to the test stimulation?
4. Have you talked with other patients who have experience with InterStim (both successes and failures) your physician may be able to organize this?
5. Have you discussed any concerns with your physician?
6. Have you discussed pain care both during and after the trial. Do you have a specific plan? If so, what is it?
7. Are you aware of what you should and should not do during the 3-5 day test stimulation period (See Patient Guide to Test Stimulation)?
8. Have you agreed a “safe word” with your physician to have the test stimulation procedure stopped if the pain is no longer bearable?
9. It may be advisable to bring a relative or friend to lend support and to drive you home.
10. Are you aware of the patient services telephone number?
11. Are you aware where to get support after hours?
12. Do you know how to operate the test stimulator?
13. Fill in voiding diaries before and during test stimulation!
14. Has your physician discussed the complications that can occur with this therapy?
15. In some instances (when the lead moves) a second test stimulation may be recommended.
--------------------------------------
Comments? Suggestions?? Would this have helped you while you were considering it??
Jill

Comment