pain management
Osteoarthritis symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time. Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include: Joint pain, swelling, stiffness and grating sensation. Currently, the process underlying osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, but symptoms can usually be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, physical and other therapies, medications, and surgery. Exercising and achieving a healthy weight are generally the most important ways to treat osteoarthritis.
Patient/caregiver instructed Allopurinol reduces the production of uric acid in your body. Uric acid buildup can lead to gout or kidney stones. Take once daily as ordered with a full glass of water. Medication may weaknen your immune system, avoid sick persons. Common side effects are vomiting, diarrhea; drowsiness, headache; changes in your sense of taste; or muscle pain. Notify SN/MD if experiencing bothersome or unusual side effects.
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.
SN instructed about medication Trazodone that is used to treat depression. It may help to improve your mood, appetite, and energy level as well as decrease anxiety and insomnia related to depression. Trazodone works by helping to restore the balance of a certain natural chemical (serotonin) in the brain. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, blurred vision, changes in weight, headache, muscle ache/pain, dry mouth, bad taste in the mouth and stuffy nose.
SN educated patient about Neutropenia. Neutropenia is an abnormally low count of neutrophils, which is a type of white blood cell. Neutrophils are made in the bone marrow, so anything that inhibits or disrupts that process can result in neutropenia. Instructed patient to prevent infection; Promote oral care, Promote hygiene, Prevent skin breakdown, Promote nutrition and ensure food is prepared and stored appropriately. Educated on signs and symptoms of infection; which include fever, Red, swollen, warm, or painful skin areas or wounds, An area of orange, bumpy skin with blisters, Cough, chest pain, or trouble breathing, Burning feeling while you urinate. Patient verbalized understanding.
SN instructed patient/ CG about Miralax to relieve constipation. SN instructed that MiraLax is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements. Common MiraLax side effects may include: bloating, gas, upset stomach; dizziness; or increased sweating.Get emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to MiraLax such as: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have: severe or bloody diarrhea; rectal bleeding; blood in your stools; or severe and worsening stomach pain.
Instructed patient caregiver If you keep having pain and cramping with no output from your stoma for more than 2 hours,
and you can’t reach your doctor or ostomy nurse, go to the emergency room. Take all your ostomy supplies with you.
Instructed patient that the most commonly reported side effects of Amlodipine (which is used to treat HTN) include: headache, edema, rash, fatigue, and dizziness. Check with MD or HH nurse if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome: acid or sour stomach, belching, heartburn, indigestion, lack or loss of strength, muscle cramps, sleepiness or unusual drowsiness, and stomach discomfort, upset, or pain.
Instructed patient on Docusate, this medication is used to treat occasional constipation. Stomach pain, diarrhea, or cramping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your home health nurse, doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Instructed patient on Dulcolax ( Bisacodyl ) which is used to treat constipation. Most common side effects include: Stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or weakness. If any of these side effects persist or become severe contact MD or HH nurse.