constipation
SN provided teaching regarding hypokalemia. Low potassium (hypokalemia) refers to a lower than normal potassium level in your bloodstream. Potassium helps carry electrical signals to cells in your body. It is critical to the proper functioning of nerve and muscles cells, particularly heart muscle cells. S/s include weakness, muscle cramps, heart palpitations, and constipation. SN instructed that patient should report any of these to her nurse promptly. Verbal understanding noted.
Metolazone is used to treat fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, or a kidney disorder such as nephrotic syndrome. Metolazone is also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Possible side effects to be aware of include low potassium, headache, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness and blurred vision.
SN instructed patient and caregiver on SIMVASTATIN. Simvastatin is a cholesterol-lowering medicine. It inhibits the production of cholesterol by the liver. High blood cholesterol is first treated with exercise, weight loss, and a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats. When these measures fail, cholesterol-lowering medications such as Simvastatin can be added. Simvastatin is generally well-tolerated and side effects are rare. Minor side effects of Simvastatin include constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, gas, heartburn, and headache. Major side effects of Simvastatin include abdominal pain or cramps, blurred vision, dizziness, easy bruising or bleeding, itching, muscle pain or cramps, rash, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.
SN educated on medication Escitalopram. This medication is used to treat depression in adults and children and teenagers 12 years or older. Escitalopram is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD; excessive worry and tension that disrupts daily life for 6 months or longer) in adults. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance. Escitalopram may cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, changes in sex drive or ability, drowsiness, increased sweating, dizziness, heartburn, stomach pain, excessive tiredness, dry mouth, decreased appetite, weight loss, flu-like symptoms, runny nose, sneezing. Tell your doctor if any of those symptoms are severe or do not go away.
SN instructed about Acetaminophen/codeine is a combination medication used to help relieve mild to moderate pain. It contains an opioid pain reliever (codeine) and a non-opioid pain reliever (acetaminophen). Codeine works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain. Acetaminophen can also reduce a fever. Potential side effects are nausea, vomiting, constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur.
Instructed patient on medication Amiodarone. This medication is used to stabilize the rhythm of your heart. Amiodarone is used to treat ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. Take this medication at the same time daily as directed. May take with or without food. Avoid grapefruit, St. John's wort, & sunlight or tanning beds. common side effects include: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite; or constipation. Call your doctor or get medical help at once if you have: chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats, trouble breathing, vision problems, upper stomach pain, vomiting, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or if you cough up blood. Tell your doctor if you have signs of a thyroid problem, such as weight changes, extreme tiredness, dry skin, thinning hair, feeling too hot or too cold, irregular menstrual periods, or swelling in your neck (goiter).