A elderly woman is having frequent headaches and goes to see her physician. He tells her that her blood pressure is quite high and starts her on two new medications. A few days later, she begins to notice that she is lightheaded and weak in the mornings. She often feels the need to lay down for a nap before noon, which is unusual for her. This continues for another two weeks. The woman begins to attribute these changes to her new medications and decides to stop taking them. Although it is difficult for her to get to the doctor, she makes a followup appointment to see him in a week. At that appointment, the physician tells her that her blood pressure is still too high. The physician changes the woman’s medications yet again.
Typical home health response:
Skilled nursing could be implemented. This would give a nurse the opportunity to perform such interventions as:
- Assess the client’s blood pressure frequently and notify the physician of her response to the new medications.
- Assess underlying dietary considerations, such as a high sodium diet, that could be negatively impacting the client’s health status and instruct the client on healthy alternatives.
Result:With home health assistance, the client experiences fewer adverse effects from her medications and is able to take them as ordered. This compliance, along with the regular blood pressure reports he receives from home health staff, allows the physician to determine whether or not the medication prescribed is effective. The client’s blood pressure stablizes and she becomes more knowledgable about how her dietary choices can negatively impact her health status.