Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(^130) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified

• Explain to the patient:
  
  
  • To avoid sitting and standing for too long to decrease chance of clot
    formation.
  
  
  • Not to cross legs to avoid constriction of vessels in the lower extremities,
    decreasing the chances of clot formation.
  
  
  • How to identify side effects from using anticoagulants, such as bleeding
    or bruising.
  
  
  • That pulmonary embolism is an adverse effect from using hormonal con-
    traceptives and a different form of birth control needs to be used in the
    future.
  
  
  
  

Influenza

WHAT WENT WRONG?

A viral infection affecting the respiratory tract that spreads through droplets. The

virus can be inhaled or picked up from surfaces through direct contact. Infection

can settle into either the upper or lower respiratory tract. The virus causes damage

to the upper layers of cells. The natural defenses of the respiratory tract are com-

promised and it is easier for bacteria to attach to the underlying respiratory tissues.

PROGNOSIS

Influenza symptoms typically run their course within about a week. Current med-

ications help to decrease the length and severity of symptoms associated with

influenza. Some patients will develop secondary infections, such as sinusitis or

viral or bacterial pneumonia following influenza. Patients with pneumonia have an

increased risk of mortality from influenza.

HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Symptoms have an abrupt onset


• Nonproductive cough


• Chills and sweats


• Fatigue and malaise

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