Mr. Jones scenario: Mr. Jones is a 72-year-old patient who r…
Mr. Jones scenario: Mr. Jones is a 72-year-old patient who recently had a stroke and has difficulty swallowing. He is prescribed several oral medications, including an enteric-coated aspirin tablet and a sustained-release blood pressure medication. A nursing assistant crushes both medications and mixes them into applesauce to make swallowing easier. Approximately one hour later, Mr. Jones reports dizziness, weakness, and blurred vision when standing. During ambulation, he becomes unsteady and nearly falls. Assessment reveals that his blood pressure is significantly lower than his baseline. The healthcare team reviews the medication administration process to determine whether a drug-form error may have occurred. The provider asks the staff to identify which medication preparations should never be crushed. The patient’s swallowing difficulty automatically justifies crushing any oral medication.
Read DetailsMs. Lewis scenario: Ms. Lewis is a 67-year-old patient with…
Ms. Lewis scenario: Ms. Lewis is a 67-year-old patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who uses a small-volume nebulizer at home. During a follow-up visit, she reports that her breathing treatments no longer seem effective. After discussion, she explains that she breathes rapidly during treatment because she wants the medication to work faster. She also admits that she has not cleaned the nebulizer equipment for over two weeks. The respiratory therapist identifies two likely causes of her treatment problems and provides additional education. Why are inhaled medications commonly used for chronic pulmonary disorders?
Read DetailsTechnology has changed the way people communicate, work,…
Technology has changed the way people communicate, work, and access information. Smartphones and computers allow people to connect with others almost instantly, even when they live far apart. Technology has also made it easier for students and employees to find information, complete tasks, and work together from different locations. However, relying too heavily on technology can create challenges, such as distractions, reduced face-to-face interaction, and difficulty disconnecting from work or social media. Using technology thoughtfully can help people benefit from its advantages while limiting some of its negative effects.
Read Details