Patient Factors
What is our patient's full name and age?
Name: Lucille Beachcomber
Age: 83
Tylenol
Ty·le·nol
*Bonus: Generic name for Tylenol?*
Is it safe to switch between Tylenol and Ibuprofen in the same day?
Yes - it is generally considered safe to switch between these two medications, as long as the timing and dosing is correct.
What is hypoglycemia?
Low Blood Sugar
Generally when Blood Sugar Levels are
< 70 mg/dL
Should pain medications be taken with food?
Yes - if possible pain medications should be taken with food to minimize potential stomach aches
Why is our patient being seen?
Car accident
Metformin
Met·for·min
What are some non-pharmacological (nonpharm) options Lucy can do?
Potentially Answers: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE)
If a patient has hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) should steroids be prescribed for inflammation?
No - steroids should try to be avoided in patients with diabetes since it may increase blood sugar levels. Using steroids short term may not be as concerning as long term use.
Can pain and stress increase blood sugar levels?
Yes - our patient should be counseled that pain and stress can increase blood sugar levels so it's important to manage both of these!
What complaints does Lucy present with?
Dizziness and pain
Celecoxib
Seh·leh·KOX·ib
What medications can our patient take if he has swelling and pain from the accident?
Any NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Celecoxib
What is the 'Rule of 15'?
What should patients typically try to avoid when taking tylenol due to possibly of liver damage?
Alcohol - taking tylenol and drinking alcohol can cause a higher risk of liver damage than just taking the medication alone.
What health conditions does our patient have?
Diabetes, iron deficiency anemia
Toujeo SoloStar
Too·Jay·O Solo·Star
How often can you take tylenol when it's needed for pain?
Every 4-6 hours as needed
*Bonus: Max Daily Dose of Tylenol?*
What is the most common medication prescribed first for people with Type 2 Diabetes?
Metformin
If a patient is on metformin what is a common side effect, but often goes away over time?
Stomach upset (Diarrhea)
What lab values were abnormal?
Blood glucose, hemoglobin, iron
Diclofenac
dye·KLOE·fen·ak
Taking too many NSAID medications/doses can cause what damage to the body?
Stomach Ulcers and Bleeding
Can Cause Liver Toxicity (Not as concerning compared to other medications)
Doing this most days of the week can help prevent or manage Type 2 diabetes and keep blood sugar levels in check.
Exercising/Being physically active
If patients are injecting insulin daily what should healthcare professionals tell them?
Rotating injection sites is important to prevent skin irritation!