Diane Dazio
WGU
Contemporary Nursing Issues
GNT 1 Task 2
Advanced Pathophysiology Task 2 Healthcare Issues/ Importance of Issues
For a patient returning home after total hip replacement surgery, there is a need for the case manager to address any issues that may hinder proper healing or safety issues. In the case of Mr. Trosack, there are several issues that the case manager must address prior to discharge.
First, Mr. Trosack is a newly diagnosed diabetic. He was prescribed Glucophage to help control his blood sugar and has demonstrated that he is able to perform his own blood glucose check using a glucometer. He has verbalized that he is not happy about having to take the “darn” medications and his family seems to be in denial about his diabetes. They believe that diet alone will control his blood sugar. Mr. Trosack’s unhappiness about taking medication and his family’s lack of concern about continuing the medication will put Mr. Trosack at risk for non-compliance with his medication regimen. It is important that Mr. Trosack receive ongoing education about controlling his diabetes including proper diet and taking his medications at specific times. This also needs to be addressed with his family so they are supportive in providing a healthy atmosphere for Mr. Trosack.
Mr. Trosack is at a risk for falls given his age and history of falling down the stairs. His home is cluttered and there are many throw rugs which can interfere with safe ambulation. He is reliant on a walker for balance and lives on the second floor of his apartment building. It is important that any clutter and tripping hazards are cleared before Mr. Trosack can return home to decrease his chance of falling. It is also important that a physical therapist evaluate Mr. Trosack’s ability to climb 2 flights of stairs safely. Being newly diagnosed with hypertension, Mr. Trosack must be educated on the importance of rising slowly to
References: Children’s, Women’s and Seniors Health Branch, British Columbia Ministry of Health. (2004). Social isolation among seniors: An emerging issue. Retrieved from http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2004/Social_Isolation_Among_Seniors.pdf Detillion, C. E., Kraft, T. K., Glasper, E. R., Prendergast, B. J., & DeVries, A. (2003, January 27). Social facilitation of wound healing. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 29, 1004-1011. Retrieved from www.elsevier.com/locate/psyneuen Szalavitz, M. (2013, March 26). Social Isolation, Not Just Feeling Lonely, May Shorten Lives. Time. Retrieved from http://healthland.time.com