blood
Diseases Process
SN explained that the problems with the veins in the legs may lead to chronic venous insufficiency ( CVI ). CVI means that there is a long-term problem with the veins not being able to pump blood back to your heart. When this happens, blood stays in the legs and causes swelling and aching. Two problems that may lead to chronic venous insufficiency are: Damaged valves. Valves keep blood flowing from the legs through the blood vessels and back to the heart. When the valves are damaged, blood does not flow as well. Deep vein thrombosis ( DVT ). Blood clots may form in the deep veins of the legs. This may cause pain, redness, and swelling in the legs. It may also block the flow of blood back to the heart. Seek immediate medical care if you have these symptoms. A blood clot in the leg can also break off and travel to the lungs. This is called pulmonary embolism ( PE ). In the lungs, the clot can cut off the flow of blood. This may cause chest pain, trouble breathing, sweating, a fast heartbeat, coughing (may cough up blood), and fainting. It is a medical emergency and may cause death. Call 911 if you have these symptoms. Healthcare providers call the two conditions,Deep vein thrombosis ( DVT ) and pulmonary embolism ( PE ), venous thromboembolism ( VTE ).
SN instructed patient and caregiver on how the kidneys play an important role in the body: they filter the blood, removing waste products and excess salt and water. If the kidneys become diseased, they falter in their task, leaving the blood polluted.People with diabetes often focus on keeping their blood sugar levels in the right ranges. And while it is important to control blood sugar, it turns out that controlling blood pressure is at least as important. That's because high blood sugar and high blood pressure work in concert to damage the blood vessels and organ systems.
Patient was instructed checking the blood sugar is a simple process using a lancing device, lancet, test strip and a meter. The following are general instructions for using a blood glucose meter.Wash the hands or clean finger or other site with alcohol. If are using alcohol, let it dry before prick the finger,Prick the site with a lancing device,Put a little drop of blood on a test strip.Insert the test strip into the blood glucose meter,In seconds, the blood glucose meter reads the blood sugar level.
Patient was instructed on supplies that will use for blood glucose meter - reads blood sugar Test strip - collects blood sample. Lancet or small needle -fits into lancing device, pricks finger, and provides small drop of blood for glucose strip. Lancing device - pricks finger when button is pressed. Most devices have dials to select how deep the needle goes into the skin. Start with middle depth. If get more blood than needed, dial the number down so the lancet does not go as deep. If get less blood, dial the number up so lancet goes deeper. Alcohol wipes or soap and water - to clean fingers or other testing site.
SN instructed that the main job of the kidneys is to filter wastes and extra water out of your blood to make urine. Your kidneys also help control blood pressure and make hormones that your body needs to stay healthy.High blood glucose, also called blood sugar, can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys. When the blood vessels are damaged, they don’t work as well. Many people with diabetes also develop high blood pressure, which can also damage your kidneys
SN explain about congestive heart failure ( CHF ). As blood flow out of the heart slows, blood returning to the heart through the veins backs up, causing fluid to build up in the tissues. The kidneys are less able to dispose of sodium and water, also causing fluid retention in the tissues. Fatigue, a tired feeling all the time and difficulty with everyday activities, such as shopping, climbing stairs, carrying groceries or walking. The heart can't pump enough blood to meet the needs of body tissues. The body diverts blood away from less vital organs, particularly muscles in the limbs, and sends it to the heart and brain. Lack of appetite, nausea, a feeling of being full or sick to your stomach. The digestive system receives less blood, causing problems with digestion. Confusion, impaired thinking, memory loss and feelings of disorientation. A caregiver or relative may notice this first. Changing levels of certain substances in the blood, such as sodium, can cause confusion. If you have 2 or more of these symptoms you may need to seek medical attention.
Skilled nurse educated patient and caregiver on HTN disease process. HTN also known as high blood pressure is a chronic condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is elevated. It is important to seek medical attention for uncontrolled HTN and develop a plan of care with your PCP. It is recommended to check your blood pressure and pulse daily before taking blood pressure medications and logging in a journal. If your blood pressure is elevated wait 1-2 hours and recheck. Contact your doctor or home health agency if problems with blood pressure continue . Patient and caregiver verbalized understanding.
SN instructed patient about High blood pressure. Normal blood pressure is when your blood pressure is lower than 120 / 80 mm / Hg most of the time. High blood pressure ( hypertension ) is when your blood pressure is 140 / 90 mm / Hg or above most of the time. SN explained that the "top number" systolic indicates the pressure in the vessels when the heart beats. The "bottom number" diastolic indicates the pressure in the vessels when the heart is at rest, to between beats. This number is the most concerning number because it tells your medical team the constant pressure on these vessels. Too high (over 80) can cause damage
Patient was instructed on how lifestyle and daily routine can affect blood sugar levels. Food is the major culprit in altering the blood sugar level. The blood is at its highest an hour or two after eaten, and then it starts to fall. What eaten, when and how much all affect blood sugar levels.
Patient was instructed on the importance to have a good blood sugar control to avoid future diabetes complications: Monitoring: keep track of the blood sugar every day, Meals: Plan healthy and enjoyable meals to help keep the blood sugar near goal, Moves (exercise): moving the body help lower the blood sugar by burning it for energy, Medicine: when Meals and Move are not enough.