Patient was educated on how to take stimulant laxatives as follows: Take the medication with a full 8 oz. glass of water. Take it at the same time every day, to avoid forgetting the medication. Maintain strict compliance with intake of the medication as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication. Do not overdose on the stimulant laxative to increase the ease of having a bowel movement Do [...]
Patient was educated on stimulant laxatives as follows: Stimulant laxatives are agents that stimulate the intestines, resulting in increased smooth muscle contractions. Increased smooth muscle contractions move the stool faster and so, decrease the transit time of the stool through the intestines. Water is gradually absorbed from the stool, as it travels along the intestines, making the stool dry and harder. Shortening of the transit time along the intestines will allow only less water to [...]
Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while using steroid inhalers as follows: Individuals with history of immunosuppression or taking any immunosuppressant medications, such as, individuals with autoimmune disorders, must be cautious regarding using steroid inhalers. These individuals are at increased risk for opportunistic bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Individuals taking other steroid medications, such as, Prednisone or Cortisol, for other health issues can be at significant risk for osteoporosis, if they are concurrently [...]
Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while using steroid inhalers as follows: Gargle and rinse the mouth with water after every dose of steroid inhalation. Spit out this water after rinsing and do not swallow. This helps prevent opportunistic candida infection in the oral cavity. Diabetics using steroid inhalations should keep a close watch on everyday blood sugar readings. Poor blood sugar control can result from steroid use and should be reported to [...]
Patient was educated on contraindications for using steroid inhalers as follows: Hypokalemia Steroid inhalers should be avoided or used with extreme caution in individuals with history of arrhythmias and reduced serum potassium levels. Chronic use of steroid inhalers in such individuals can result in further drop in serum potassium levels that can precipitate life-threatening arrhythmias. A close watch for irregular heartbeat, palpitations, dizziness, tingling, and muscle cramps must be maintained in individuals using steroid inhalations [...]
