heart healthy
General
SN instructed on ways to help reduce Edema: to elevate lower extremities above the level of the heart approximately 8-12 inches for at least 30 minutes 3/4 times a day to improve circulation, promote venous drainage and reduce swelling.
Instructed patient in lifestyle and home remedies that may help decrease edema and keep it from coming back. Before trying any self-care techniques, talk to your doctor about which ones are right for you. Moving and using the muscles in the part of your body affected by edema, especially your legs, may help pump the excess fluid back toward your heart. Ask your doctor about exercises you can do that may reduce swelling. Patient verbalized understanding.
Instructed patient in lifestyle and home remedies that may help decrease edema and keep it from coming back. Before trying any self-care techniques, talk to your doctor about which ones are right for you. Massage or stroking the affected area toward your heart using firm, but not painful, pressure may help move the excess fluid out of that area. Patient verbalized understanding.
SN instructed patient and caregiver that smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Smoking also increases risk for tuberculosis, certain eye diseases, and problems of the immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis. It is very important for you to quit smoking to prevent chances of getting any or all of the diseases.