congestive heart
SN instructed patient that Eliquis is used to prevent serious blood clots from forming due to a certain irregular heartbeat ( atrial fibrillation ) or after hip/knee replacement surgery. With atrial fibrillation, part of the heart does not beat the way it should. This can lead to blood clots forming, which can travel to other parts of your body (such as the lungs or legs) or increase your risk for stroke. In the United States, apixaban is also approved to treat certain types of blood clots ( deep vein thrombosis - DVT, pulmonary embolus - PE ) and to prevent them from forming again. Eliquis is an anticoagulant that works by blocking certain clotting proteins in your blood. SN also instructed that Nausea, easy bruising, or minor bleeding ( such as nosebleed, bleeding from cuts ) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This medication can cause serious bleeding if it affects your blood clotting proteins too much. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of serious bleeding, including: unusual pain / swelling / discomfort, unusual bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts or gums, persistent / frequent nosebleeds, unusually heavy / prolonged menstrual flow, pink/dark urine, coughing up blood, vomit that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds, severe headache, dizziness / fainting, unusual or persistent tiredness / weakness, bloody / black / tarry stools, difficulty swallowing.
SN instructed patient / caregiver on the home treatment to treating edema, or swelling due to excess fluid in the legs and ankles. Treatment may include elevating the feet above heart level, wearing compression stockings and exercising the legs. Reducing sodium in the diet, losing weight and avoiding tight clothing can also reduce swelling.
SN explained that the Chronic venous insufficiency ( CVI ) can’t be cured, but you can control leg swelling to reduce the likelihood of ulcers ( sores ). Recognizing the symptoms Be aware of the following: If you stand or sit with your feet down for long periods, your legs may ache or feel heavy. Swollen ankles are possibly the most common symptom of Chronic venous insufficiency ( CVI ). As swelling increases, the skin over your ankles may show red spots or a brownish tinge. The skin may feel leathery or scaly, and may start to itch. If swelling is not controlled, an ulcer ( open wound ) may form. What you can do Reduce your risk of developing ulcers by doing the following: Increase blood flow back to your heart by elevating your legs, exercising daily, and wearing elastic stockings. Boost blood flow in your legs by losing excess weight. If you must stand or sit in one place for a period of time, keep your blood moving by wiggling your toes, shifting your body position, and rising up on the balls of your feet. Pt verbalizes understanding.
SN instructed patient on medication Torsemide. This medication is used to treat high blood pressure and edema ( fluid retention, excess fluid held in body tissues ) caused by various medical problems, including heart, kidney, or liver disease. In addition to taking this medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking and using alcohol in moderation. To help you remember to take torsemide, take it around the same time every day. Torsemide controls high blood pressure and edema but does not cure these conditions. SN instructed to patient to continue to take torsemide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking torsemide without talking to your doctor. Common side effects of Torsemide includes: Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing or sitting up, excessive urination, constipation, headache and nausea.
SN instructed patient High blood pressure often has no warning signs or symptoms, so many people don’t realize they have it. Some symptoms may include headache, blurred vision, nervousness, sweating, difficulty sleeping or facial flushing. Even with no symptoms, hypertension needs ongoing treatment to protect the heart, kidneys and other organs from further damage.
Instructed patient Contact your healthcare provider or physician immediately: ff you have an irregular heart rate, your fluids or using cool mist humidification. If you have any other problems or concerns. If you feel increased pain or discomfort.
SN educated patient/caregiver about CKD. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means your kidneys are damaged and can’t filter blood the way they should. The main risk factors for developing kidney disease are diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and a family history of kidney failure. You can take steps to protect your kidneys. The most important step you can take to treat kidney disease is to control your blood pressure. Healthy habits can also help you manage your kidney disease.
SN instructed patient on hyperlipidemia also known as hyperlipoproteinemia. It is a condition in which there are high levels of fat particles (lipids) in the blood. These substances can deposit in blood vessel walls and restrict blood flow. This creates a risk of heart attack and stroke. Hyperlipidemia doesn't cause any symptoms. The condition is diagnosed by routine blood tests, recommended every five years for adults. Treatments include medication, a healthy diet, and exercise.
SN also instructed pt on the disease process of hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland controls a lot of our body functions, when it is unable to produce the amount of thyroid hormone your body needs, you will need to take this hormone orally. Take this medication everyday as ordered by your MD. Report to SN or MD if you have sensitivity to cold temperature, dry skin, constipation, forgetfulness, chronic fatigue, decreased heart rate, depression, hair loss, weight gain, muscle stiffness and cramping, as these can be signs your medication is not the correct dose.
SN instructed patient/ caregiver that Bradycardia can be a serious problem if the heart doesn't pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body. For some people, however, bradycardia doesn't cause symptoms or complications.SN explained that If you have bradycardia, your brain and other organs might not get enough oxygen, possibly causing these symptoms: Near-fainting or fainting (syncope) Dizziness or lightheadedness, Fatigue, Shortness of breath, Chest pains, Confusion or memory problems, Easily tiring during physical activity.If you faint, have difficulty breathing or have chest pain lasting more than a few minutes, get emergency care or call 911 or your local emergency number.