catheter-teaching-guide
SN instructed patient about Gabapentin ( Neurontin ). It is a medication used to treat epilepsy, neuropathic pain and hot flashes. It is also used for restless leg syndrome. It is a first line agent for the treatment of neuropathic pain arising from diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, and central neuropathic pain. Most common side effects of gabapentin in adult patients include dizziness, fatigue, drowsiness, weight gain, and peripheral edema. It may also produce sexual dysfunction in some patients, symptoms of which may include loss of libido, inability to reach sexual climax, and erectile dysfunction. It should be used carefully in patients with renal impairment due to possible accumulation and toxicity. Warning of an increased risk of depression and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in patients taking gabapentin. Report to Physician or nurse if any of those side effect / adverse reaction occurs.
SN instructed patient that Vesicare (solifenacin) reduces muscle spasms of the bladder and urinary tract. It is used to treat symptoms of overactive bladder, such as frequent or urgent urination, and incontinence ( urine leakage) . The most common side effect of solifenacin are dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. As all anticholinergics ,it may rarely cause hyperthermia due to decreased perspiration.
SN instructed patient that steri strips may fall off the skin after 10 days. Leave the steri strips in place until they fall off on their own accord or until your doctor determines it is appropriate to remove them. If the wound has healed and your doctor says you can remove the strips, use lotion or a small amount of water to loosen them from your skin.
SN instructed that Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor antagonist, with particularly high affinity for the type I angiotensin receptor. Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects: allergic reaction: itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing, change in how much or how often you urinate, bloody or cloudy urine, confusion, weakness, uneven heartbeat, trouble breathing, numbness in your hands, feet, or lips, lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
SN instructed patient / caregiver that Tamsulosin is used in the treatment of difficult urination, a common symptom of enlarged prostate ( BPH ). Tamsulosin works by relaxing bladder neck muscles and muscle fibers in the prostate itself and make it easier to urinate. Possible side effect may include, Higher risk of allergic reaction in those with sulfa allergies. Patients taking tamsulosin are prone to a complication known as floppy iris syndrome during cataract surgery. Severe hypotension. It also affect sexual function in men. It can cause males to experience semen entering the bladder.
SN instructed patient that Prednisone is a synthetic corticosteroid drug that is particularly effective as an immunosuppressant drug. It is used to treat certain inflammatory diseases and for many different indications including: asthma, COPD, CIDP, rheumatic disorders, allergic disorders, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, adrenocortical insufficiency, hypercalcemia due to cancer, thyroiditis, laryngitis, severe tuberculosis, urticaria ( hives ), lipid pneumonitis. Possible side effect may include, Increased blood sugar for diabetics, Difficulty controlling emotion, Difficulty in maintaining train of thought, Weight gain, Immunosuppression, Facial swelling, Severe, Depression, mania, psychosis, or other psychiatric symptoms, Unusual fatigue or weakness, Mental confusion / indecisiveness, Memory and attention dysfunction (Steroid dementia syndrome), Blurred vision. Take prednisone as ordered.
SN instructed patient that Prednisone is a synthetic corticosteroid drug that is particularly effective as an immunosuppressant drug. It is used to treat some types of cancer, but has significant adverse effects. It is used for many different indications including: Pericarditis, multiple sclerosis, nephrotic syndrome, to relieve the effects of shingles, lupus, myasthenia gravis, poison oak exposure, meniere's disease and as part of a drug regimen to prevent rejection after organ transplant. Possible side effect may include: Abdominal pain, peptic ulcer, painful hips or shoulders, steroid-induced osteoporosis, stretch marks, osteonecrosis - same as avascular necrosis, insomnia, severe joint pain, cataracts or glaucoma, anxiety, black stool, stomach pain or bloating, severe swelling among others. Take prednisone as ordered.
SN instructed patient and caregiver that Apixaban ( Eliquis ) is a anticoagulant for the treatment of venous thromboembolic events. It is indicated for the following: to lower the risk of stroke and embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis ( DVT ) prophylaxis. DVT's may lead to pulmonary embolism ( PE ) in knee or hip replacement surgery patients, treatment of both DVT and PE, to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT and PE after initial therapy. Apixaban can increase the risk of bleeding and may cause serious, potentially fatal, bleeding. Concurrent use with drugs affecting hemostasis ( e.g. other anticoagulants, heparin, aspirin and other antiplatelet drugs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ) can further increase the risk of bleeding.
SN instructed that the Lithium is used to treat the manic episodes of manic depression. Manic symptoms include hyperactivity, rushed speech, poor judgment, reduced need for sleep, aggression, and anger. It also helps to prevent or lessen the intensity of manic episodes. Drink extra fluids each day to keep from getting dehydrated while you are taking lithium. Tell your doctor if you have been sweating excessively, or if you are sick with fever, vomiting, or diarrhea for more than a few hours.
Sn instructed patient while you may not be able to avoid the pain that comes with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ), you can take action to limit it. By taking your pain medication on a schedule. Don’t wait until you are in more pain and have to play "catch-up." Using a warm, moist compress to loosen up a stiff joint. Try an ice pack on an inflamed joint. Massage may also help. These tried-and-true treatments are easy and can provide some quick relief for mild symptoms. Also instructed that on the importance to make it a priority every day to relax. If you need ideas for healthy ways to manage stress, ask your doctor or a counselor. You may want to try meditation, and focus on things you enjoy. Patient verbalizes understanding.