low sodium diet
SN instructed patient / caregiver on factors that increase risk of HTN, such as: age, race, family history, stress, high sodium intake, high cholesterol intake, obesity and sedentary lifestyle. SN instructed patient / caregiver on measures to control/manage HTN, such as: exercise as tolerated, achieve/maintain healthy/ideal weight, decrease sodium intake to decrease fluid retention and the workload of the heart. SN Instructed importance of eating foods rich in calcium, protein and fiber.
SN explain about congestive heart failure ( CHF ). As blood flow out of the heart slows, blood returning to the heart through the veins backs up, causing fluid to build up in the tissues. The kidneys are less able to dispose of sodium and water, also causing fluid retention in the tissues. Fatigue, a tired feeling all the time and difficulty with everyday activities, such as shopping, climbing stairs, carrying groceries or walking. The heart can't pump enough blood to meet the needs of body tissues. The body diverts blood away from less vital organs, particularly muscles in the limbs, and sends it to the heart and brain. Lack of appetite, nausea, a feeling of being full or sick to your stomach. The digestive system receives less blood, causing problems with digestion. Confusion, impaired thinking, memory loss and feelings of disorientation. A caregiver or relative may notice this first. Changing levels of certain substances in the blood, such as sodium, can cause confusion. If you have 2 or more of these symptoms you may need to seek medical attention.
Colace is a laxative prescribed to treat occasional constipation, as well as constipation associated with certain medical conditions. Docusate sodium, the active ingredient in Colace, works by allowing water and fats to get into the stool. This helps soften the stool and makes the passing stool more comfortable. Your doctor may recommend stool softeners such as docusate sodium as the first method used for preventing and treating constipation.
Instructed patient on how important is to understand that a diabetic diet is not a restrictive diet, on the contrary it is a healthy, nutrient enriched diet, low in calories and fat.
Instructed patient Eat a heart-healthy diet Eating a healthy diet can reduce your risk of heart disease. A diet rich in fruits,
vegetables and whole grains can help protect your heart. Beans, other low-fat sources of protein and certain types of fish
also can reduce your risk of heart disease. Stop your activity if you feel short of breath, dizzy, or have any pain in your chest. Do not do any activity
or exercise that causes pulling or pain across your chest, (such as using a rowing machine, twisting, or lifting weights.
SN instructed on a importance of a healthy diabetic diet high in fiber, but low in fat, and eating at a regular time throughout the day. A bowl of oatmeal a day can really bring down cholesterol. Follow a diet rich in healthy fats like vegetable oils and fish. And avoid foods high in saturated fats and trans fats.
SN instructed patient about the heart is a muscle that pumps oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body. When you have heart failure, the heart is not able to pump as well as it should. Blood and fluid may back up into the lungs (congestive heart failure), and some parts of the body don’t get enough oxygen-rich blood to work normally. These problems lead to the symptoms of heart failure. Follow a heart healthy diet. And make sure to limit the salt (sodium) in your diet. Salt causes your body to hold water. This makes your heart work harder as there is more fluid for the heart to pump.
SN instructed caregiver that symptoms of low blood pressure may include: blurry vision, confusion, dizziness, fainting (syncope), lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting, sleepiness, weakness. Treatment depends on the cause of your low blood pressure and your symptoms. If any symptoms from a drop in blood pressure, lie patient down right away, then raise patient's feet above heart level.
Educated patient on what is a mechanical soft diet and he was explained that this diet is designed for people who have trouble chewing and swallowing. Chopped, ground and pureed foods are included in this diet, as well as foods that break apart without a knife. Understanding was verbalized.
Patient and caregiver instructed that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can happen to everyone who has diabetes. Symptoms include headache, hunger, sweating, pale skin, irritability, dizziness, feeling shaky, or trouble concentrating. Always keep a source of sugar with you in case you have low blood sugar. Sugar sources include fruit juice, hard candy, crackers, raisins, and non-diet soda. Be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency.