skin integrity
SN instructed patient / caregiver regarding Metoprolol Tartrate, which is in a group of drugs called beta - blockers. That is affect the heart and circulation ( blood flow through arteries and veins ). Metoprolol is used to treat angina ( chest pain ) and hypertension ( high blood pressure ). It is also used to treat or prevent heart attack. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects: chest pain, pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest, feeling light - headed, fainting; feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion, swelling of your hands or feet, nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay - colored stools, jaundice ( yellowing of the skin or eyes ), easy bruising, unusual bleeding ( nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum ), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin, wheezing, trouble breathing. Less serious side effects may include: dry mouth, constipation, heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, drowsiness, tired feeling, sleep problems ( insomnia ), or anxiety, nervousness. Do not suddenly stop taking metoprolol tartrate. Sharp chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and sometimes heart attack may occur if you suddenly stop metoprolol tartrate. The risk may be greater if you have certain types of heart disease. Tell your doctor or dentist that you take metoprolol tartrate before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care or surgery.
SN explained that the Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels of the body that supply the skin with blood. Changes to the blood vessels because of diabetes can cause a skin condition called diabetic dermopathy. This appears as scaly patches that are light brown or red, often on the front of the legs.
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.
Tracheostomy care Instructed patient caregiver It is important to routinely clean the skin around the opening of the tracheostomy (stoma). This
will help prevent skin irritation and the build-up of secretions.
Ostomy care It is not necessary to use soap to clean around your stoma. But if you prefer to use soap, use a very mild soap. Avoid using soaps and cleansers with oils, per - fumes, or deodorants since these can sometimes cause skin problems or keep your skin barrier from sticking.
Colostomy care Instructed patient caregiver If there are no problems, wipe around the stoma with the skin wipes. If the skin is a little wet,
sprinkle some stoma powder on the wet area. Let the area air dry for a few minutes.
Ostomy care instructed patient unless recommended, do not apply powders or creams to the skin around your
stoma because they can keep your skin barrier from sticking.
SN instructed pt regarding Keppra (levetiracetam), it is an anti-epileptic drug, also called an anticonvulsant. Keppra is usually taken once every 12 to 24 hours. Take the medicine at the same time each day. You may take this medicine with or without food. Use Keppra regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely. Do not stop using this medicine suddenly, even if you feel fine. Stopping suddenly may cause increased seizures. Follow your doctor's instructions about tapering your dose. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of Keppra and may also increase the risk of seizures. Levetiracetam may impair your thinking or reactions. Avoid doing anything that requires your attention until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or severe drowsiness can cause falls or other accidents. Common Keppra side effects may include: dizziness, drowsiness; feeling tired; weakness; feeling aggressive or irritable; loss of appetite; stuffy nose; or infection. Call your doctor at once if you have: unusual changes in mood or behavior (unusual risk-taking behavior, being irritable or talkative); confusion, hallucinations, loss of balance or coordination; extreme drowsiness, feeling very weak or tired; bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness; problems with walking or movement; the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild; or signs of an infection - fever, swollen gums, painful mouth sores, pain when swallowing, skin sores, cold or flu symptoms, cough, trouble breathing. Pt verbalized understanding of uses and denies experiencing any SE. Pt stated he does not drink alcohol.
Instructed patient keep the skin around your PEG tube dry. This will help prevent skin irritation and infection.
Instructed patent / CG wash skin around the tube with soap and warm water. Clean around G-tube to remove any drainage and / or crusting. Rinse soap off with clear water. Dry skin thoroughly. Keep this site clean and dry.