- When diagnosis is unclear or uncertain
- Unexpected clinical findings – cyanosis, heart failure, crepitations, clubbing
- Peak flow or spirometry results different to that expected by signs and symptoms
- Stridor
- Fixed or unilateral wheeze
- Persistent cough
- Chest pain that is persistent or has atypical features
- Persistent shortness of breath
- Pneumonia which doesn’t resolve
- Possibility of occupational asthma
- Weight loss
Thanks to Scullion, J. (2005) A proactive approach to asthma Nursing Standard 20 9 57-65
Tags: health, medicine, occupational asthma, persistent cough, referral
- Asymptomatic
- Hesitancy
- Urgency
- Freuency
- Haematuria
- Haematospermia
- Impotence
- Raised PSA
- Poor urinary flow
Thanks to Henderson, S. & Van Zyl, M. (2012) Prostate cancer: a growing challenge Nursing in Practice 65 37-38
Tags: cancer, prostate, signs and symptoms
- Each diabetic patient should have an annual foot check
- Ask patient to take of shoes and socks
- Check for cuts, ulcers, infection
- Check for deformity or callus
- Ask about any pain or previous ulcers
- Palpate dorsal and posterior tibial pulses to check circulation
- Use 10g monofilament or vibration to check for neuropathy
- Discuss risks posed to feet by diabetes, and the importance of footcare and well-fitting footwear
- Teach patient how to make regular checks of feet
- Ensure patient knows who to contact on encountering any problems or concerns.
Thanks to Moulton, C. (2012) reducing the need for foot amputation in diabetes patients Nursing in Practice 65 43-44
Tags: diabetes patients, diabetic foot, diabetic patient, fitting footwear, footcare, monofilament, neuropathy
Hello! Just letting you know I’ve added another menu along the right hand side for links to free CPD modules for nurses. Do let me know if you find a link is broken or if you find organisations offering free CPD that I haven’t included here – it’s good to spread the joy!
The stress of bereavement increases the risk of MI. The risk is greatest in the first 24 hours after the death of a close friend or family member and reduces over itme. Support for family members and ensuring compliance with preventative measures is key.
Mostofsky, E. et al (2012) Risk of acute myocardial infarction after hte death of a significant person in one’s life: the determinants of MI Onset Study Circulation 2012
Tags: acute myocardial infarction, bereavement, health, MI, myocardial infarction, stress
