Instructed in that "oxygen therapy" is the administration of oxygen at a higher concentration than what is found in the environment. It can be given via cannula, mask catheter, etc. Oxygen must be ordered by a MD and administered exactly as prescribed.
Instructed in state safety tips necessary for oxygen therapy: Place no-smoking signs to warn the dangers of smoking. Keep oxygen away from open flames, heat, gas sloves, hot pipes, radiators, etc. Equip home with a fire extinguisher and a smoke alarm. Avoid use of electrical equipment such as electric beds, heating pads or electric razors. Avoid using flammable products such as body lotion, face creams, rubbing, alcohol, etc. Avoid using aerosol sprays.
Instructed in S/E of oxygen therapy such as respiratory depression, collapse lung, irritation of airway mucosa, oxygen toxicity, local skin irritation.
Instructed in new medication Starlix to manage diabetes. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as dizziness, diarrhea, hypoglycemia, back pain, arthropathy, upper respiratory tract infection, bronchitis, coughing, flu symptoms and accidental trauma. Instructed to take drug 1 to 30 minutes before a meal. Notify MD for persistent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
Instructed in new medication Protonix to manage esophagitis. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as headache, insomnia, asthenia, dizziness, chest pain, pharyngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal pain, eructation, constipation, nausea, vomiting, urinary frequency, hyperglycemia, back pain, neck pain, hypertonia, rash, bronchitis, increased cough, etc. The drug can be taken without regard to meal.
Instructed in new medication Wellbutrin to manage depression. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as headache, seizures, anxiety, confusion, delusions, euphoria, hostility, impaired sleep quality, insomnia, sedation, tremor, akinesia, akathisia, agitation, dizziness, fatigue, syncope, fever, arrhythmias, hypertension, hypotension, palpitations, tachycardia, auditory disturbances, blurred vision, dry mouth, taste disturbance, increased appetite, constipation, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea, impotence, menstrual complaints, urinary frequency, urine retention, weight loss, weight gain, arthritis, pruritus, rash, cutaneous temperature disturbance, excessive diaphoresis, chills and decreased libido. Advised to avoid prolonged sun exposure and to use sun block.
Instructed in new medication Plavix to reduce atherosclerotic events. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, depression, pain, edema, hypertension, rhinitis, epistaxis, abdominal pain, gastritis, constipation, diarrhea, ulcers, arthralgia, coughing, rash, pruritus and others.
Instructed in new medication Pred Forte to manage inflammation of palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea and anterior segment of globe. In addition, warned of possible S/E, such as, increased intraocular pressure, thinning of cornea, interference with corneal wound healing, increased susceptibility to viral or fungal corneal infections, corneal ulceration, discharge, discomfort, foreign body sensation, glaucoma exacerbation, cataracts, visual acuity and visual field defects, optic nerve damage with excessive or long-term use, systemic effects, and adrenal suppression with excessive or long-term use. Instructed to wash hands before and after installation and warned not to touch tip of dropper to eye or surrounding area. Apply light finger pressure on lacrimal sac for 1 minute after installation. On long-term therapy, have frequent tests of intraocular pressure. Instructed not to share drug, washcloths, or towels with family members, and notify MD if anyone develops same signs or symptoms. Stress importance of compliance with recommended therapy. Notify MD if improvement does not occur within several days or if pain, itching, or swelling of eye occurs. Instructed not to use leftover drug for new eye inflammation because serious problems may occur.
Instructed in new medication Vioxx to manage osteoarthritis. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as headache, asthenia, fatigue, dizziness, aseptic meningitis, hypertension, lower-extremity edema, sinusitis, diarrhea, dyspepsia, epigastric discomfort, heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, GI bleeding, urinary tract infection, hyponatremia, back pain, bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infection, pulmonary edema and flu-like syndrome. Patient may experience signs and symptoms of GI bleeding, including bloody vomitus, blood in urine and stool and black, tarry stools. Advised to call MD if he experiences these signs or symptoms. Report rash, unexplained weight gain or edema. Avoid aspirin and products containing aspirin unless prescriber has instructed otherwise. Avoid OTC anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen (Advil) unless prescriber has instructed it. All NSAIDs including Rofecoxib may adversely affect the liver. Signs and symptoms of liver toxicity include nausea, fatigue, lethargy, itching, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness and flu-like syndrome. Instructed to stop therapy and call MD immediately if patient experiences these signs or symptoms. Women must inform MD if they become pregnant, or they are planning on becoming pregnant while taking drugs. This drug may be taken without regard to food although taking it with food may decrease GI distress. The most common adverse effects of this drug are dyspepsia, epigastric discomfort, heartburn and nausea. Taking drug with food may help minimize these effects.
Instructed in new medication Alprazolam to manage anxiety. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as drowsiness, light-headedness, headache, confusion, tremor, dizziness, syncope, depression, insomnia, memory impairment, nervousness, minor changes in EEG patterns, hypotension, tachycardia, blurred vision, nasal congestion, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, increased salivation, weight gain or loss, muscle rigidity, dermatitis. Avoid hazardous activities that require alertness and good psychomotor coordination until CNS effects of drug are known. Avoid alcohol while taking drug. Smoking may decrease effectiveness of drug. Do not stop using drug abruptly because withdrawal symptoms or seizures may occur.
