including damage eyes retinopathy which can lead blindness damage nerves neuropathy
SN Instructed patient about the Eliquis ( apixaban ) this is helps to prevent that platelets in your blood from sticking together and forming a blood clot. Eliquis is used to lower the risk of stroke caused by a blood clot in people with a heart rhythm disorder called atrial fibrillation. Because Eliquis keeps your blood from coagulating ( clotting ) to prevent unwanted blood clots, this medicine can also make it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury such as a fall or a bump on the head. Do not stop taking Eliquis unless your doctor tells you to. Stopping suddenly can increase your risk of blood clot or stroke
SN instructed on the benefits of having Advance Directives. What are advance directives? Advance directives are legal documents that allow you to spell out ahead of time what types medical care you would want if you ever became unable to speak for yourself. These documents can help ensure that you get the care you want even if you have an unexpected serious illness or accident. The documents can also make things easier for the people who will need to make decisions for you if you ever become unable to make them for yourself.
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.
SN instructed patient about urinary infection's Diet. The use of cranberry products seems to decrease the ability of bacteria to
adhere to the lining of the urethra and bladder. As cranberry juice can have a high amount of sugar, cranberry extract can
be taken in capsule or pill form instead. Increasing water intake by one or two glasses per day may help limit the length of
time that you have symptoms and reduce the infections.
SN instructed patient / caregiver about a few simple precautions that can be taken to create a safe home environment when using oxygen. Oxygen canisters should be kept at least 5 - 10 feet away from gas stoves, lighted fireplaces, wood stoves, candles or other sources of open flames. Do not use electric razors while using oxygen ( These are a possible source of sparks ). Do not use oil, grease or petroleum - based products on the equipment. Do not use it near you while you use oxygen. These materials are highly flammable and will burn readily with the presence of oxygen. Avoid petroleum - based lotions or creams, like Vaseline, on your face or upper chest. Check the ingredients of such products before purchase. If a skin moisturizer is needed, consider using cocoa butter, aloe vera or other similar products. For lubrication or rehydration of dry nasal passages, use water - based products. Your pharmacist or care provider can suggest these.
SN instructed that because of a woman's anatomy, all women are at risk of developing a urinary tract infection. Mayo Clinic notes that the short distance from the urethra to the anus and bladder opening causes this risk. The infection can also develop when bacteria from the GI tract spreads to the urethra from the anus. Sexually transmitted diseases can also cause urinary tract infections. Anyone who suspects a urinary tract infection is present should seek medical attention, Doctors conduct a urine test to determine if a patient has the infection, and it is treated with antibiotics.
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 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.
Sn instructed patient on ways to prevent Urinary tract infection ( UTI ). If the patient is elderly be careful with cleaning, be sure that the perineal area is being cleansed properly. Women should always wipe themselves from the front to the back. If you are tending to perineal care, take steps to ensure that you always wipe your starting in front of the urethra and wiping towards the anus. Before wiping the area again, fold the rag to a clean section. The idea is that residue from the anus should never be dragged toward or against the urethra. Patients that wear adult diapers, or briefs, should be changed on a regular basis. They should be checked every two hours or so and they should never be allowed to sit in dirty briefs for prolonged periods. You should also wiped and cleansed after every brief change and bowel movement. Douches should never be used. The right drinks - what you drink can make a difference. Caffeinated drinks and alcohol can irritate the bladder and should be avoided as much as possible. Patient and caregiver verbalized understanding.
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.