hypertension
Medications
Instructed in new medication Albuterol to prevent or treat bronchospasm in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as tremor, nervousness, dizziness, insomnia, headache, hyperactivity, weakness, CNS stimulation, malaise, tachycardia, palpitations, hypertension, dry and irritated nose and throat (with inhaled form), nasal congestion, epistaxis, hoarseness, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, bad taste in mouth, increased appetite, hypokalemia, muscle cramps, bronchospasm, cough, wheezing, dyspnea, bronchitis, increased sputum or hypersensitivity reactions. Warned patient about possibility of paradoxical bronchospasm. If this occurs, discontinue drug immediately. If more than one inhalation is ordered, instructed to wait at least 2 minutes before repeating procedure. Use of an aero chamber may improve drug delivery to the lungs. If steroid inhaler used, advised to use the bronchodilator first and then advised to wait about 5 minutes before using the steroid. This allows the bronchodilator to open the air passages for maximum effectiveness. Advised to remove canister and wash inhaler with warm, soapy water at least once a week.
Instructed in new medication Aricept to manage moderate dementia of the Alzheimer type. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as headache, insomnia, dizziness, fatigue, depression, abnormal dreams, somnolence, seizures, tremor, irritability, paresthesia, aggression, vertigo, ataxia, restlessness, abnormal crying, nervousness, aphasia, syncope, pain, chest pain, hypertension, vasodilation, atrial fibrillation, hot flashes, hypotension, cataract, blurred vision, eye irritation, sore throat, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia, fecal incontinence, GI bleeding, bloating, epigastric pain, frequent urination, ecchymosis, weight loss, dehydration, muscle cramps, arthritis, toothache, bone fracture, dyspnea, bronchitis, pruritus, urticaria, diaphoresis, influenza, and increased libido. The drug does not alter the underlying degenerative disease but can temporarily stabilize or relieve symptoms. Effective therapy depends on taking drug at regular intervals. Instructed to take drug in the evening, just before bedtime. Immediately report significant adverse effects or changes in overall health status. Inform health care team that patient is taking drug before he receives anesthesia. Avoid OTC cold or sleep remedies because of the potential for increased anticholinergic effects.
Instructed patient about how Atenolol blocks stimulation of receptors within vascular smooth muscle. It also decreases heart rate, decreases comsumption of oxygen by myocardium and it is used to treat hypertension, prophylaxis of angina pectoris, suspected or known myocardial infarction.
Taught that Labetalol is used with or without other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
Taught that Hyzaar is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
SN instructed patient to rise slowly from sitting/supine position, as Atenolol may cause orthostatic hypotension and to avoid sudden discontinuation of this drug, as this may cause rebound hypertension. Patient verbalized understanding of instructions given.
Instructed ALF's staff in new medication of Clopidogrel ( Plavix ) to reduce atherosclerotic events. In addition, warned of possible side effects such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, depression, pain, edema, hypertension, rhinitis, epistaxis, abdominal pain, gastritis, constipation, diarrhea, ulcers, arthralgia, coughing, rash, pruritus and others.
VITAMIN C
Patient was instructed in new medication Vitamin C side effects such as; nausea, vomiting, heartburn, abdominal cramps, and headache. Dental erosion may occur from chronically chewing vitamin C tablets.
SN instructed patient about Coreg is a beta blocker used for heart failure, hypertension or after a MI. Side effects include dizziness, shortness of breath, slow heart rate, lightheadedness, weight gain, swelling of feet and legs. Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.
SN instructed patient and caregiver about Clonidine, it is used alone or with other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Possible SE/AR may include: dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, dry mouth, or constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting, slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes like, irritability, depression.
Patient was instructed about Taztia ( Diltiazem ), it belongs to a group of drugs called calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing the muscles of your heart and blood vessels. It is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders. Possible SE/AR may include, dizziness. When you sit or lie down for a while, get up slowly to allow your body to adjust and minimize dizziness. Also may also experience bloating, heartburn, muscle cramps, headache, flushing, nasal congestion, sore throat, constipation or diarrhea. Inform your doctor if they become bothersome. Notify your doctor if you develop, breathing difficulties, swelling of the hands or feet, an irregular heartbeat.