diverticulosis-and-diverticulitis
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 caregiver when you should call the doctor cramps lasting more than 2 or 3 hours continuous nausea and vomiting, no ostomy output for 4 to 6 hours with cramping and nausea.
Instructed patient her LVAD team will give you detailed instructions on what you need to do on a daily basis for your specific device and medical condition. They will also most likely give you a chart (sometimes called a “flowsheet”) customized for your specific device, to fill out daily. Flowsheets make it easy to keep track of your weight, medications, device settings (such as pump speed, power, etc.) and other daily maintenance items. Sample flowsheets are included at the bottom of the page (they vary slightly based on manufacturer). It is a sample only; use the flowsheet provided by your LVAD team. Understanding was verbalized.
Instructed patient that for healthy living with your LVAD, you’ll need to make sure that: the equipment is working properly,you have sufficient power sources at all times, your driveline exit site is clean and dry, following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, as you’re able to tolerate it, are taking your medications and supplements as directed by your doctor. Understanding was verbalized.
Instructed patient that it is not uncommon to experience significant stress, anxiety or depression when receiving your LVAD or becoming a caregiver for an LVAD recipient. There have been a lot of changes in your body and your life recently. There are many different causes of mental health issues, many of which are not under your control. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, it is not a bad thing to ask for help. There are many new medications and treatments available to help you feel better. Sometimes mental health issues are not recognized by the person who is affected. We have provided this tool to help you or a loved one identify when you may need to ask for help. Understanding was verbalized.
SN taught patient on sleeping with LVAD, and it was explained that many LVAD patients actually find that they’re able to sleep more comfortably with their LVAD than they did before because they’re feeling better and breathing more easily. There are, however, two major ways that having an LVAD affects your sleep routine: You may not be able to sleep on your stomach. Stomach sleeping can compress or pull on the driveline. Sleeping on your back is the best option, although some LVAD patients find it comfortable to sleep on their sides. You’ll also need to make sure that the driveline doesn’t get tangled in clothing or blankets. At first, sleeping with the LVAD may feel awkward, but most patients get used to it after a few days. Understanding was verbalized.
SN instructed patient on ways to conserve energy due to muscle weakness dx such as small frequent meals, avoiding large meals/overeating, take frequent rest periods to prevent from becoming tired, exercise as often as you can without tiring yourself out, stretching and range of motion is good to help build strength and controlling stress.
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 medication Irbesartan, it is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It works by relaxing blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or upset stomach may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
Instructed patient on Atorvastatin which is used to lower cholesterol, some side effects include confusion, memory problems; fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine; swelling, weight gain, urinating less than usual or not at all, increased thirst, increased urination, hunger, dry mouth, and fruity breath odor.