The clinical connection that I would like to share relates to the patient I was caring for who has a history of actinic keratosis, aortic insufficiency, aortic valve replaced, basal cell carcinoma, clostridium difficile, chronic lymphoid leukemia, erosive esophagitis, GERD, heart failure, hematuria, total hip replacement, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, influenza A, osteoarthritis, iron deficiency, major depressive disorder, MERSA-nares, pressure ulcer of sacral region, squamous cell carcinoma, and stroke. He was being treated for elevated troponin and urinary tract infection. He was on the following medications: Allopurinol, Amiodarone, Bethanechol, Bupropion, Calcium D, Colchicine, Enoxaparin, Fentanyl, Folic Acid, Gabapentin, …show more content…
The patient who it was prescribed for was in his 70’s; thus being of some concern, but if well monitored should remain safe. It can cause some confusion and disorientation, but the patient was already suffering from a confused mental state and the benefits seemed to outweigh the risks. Other adverse effects that Amiodarone causes: dizziness, fatigue, malaise, and headache. It could potentiate for serious side effects including: respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary toxicity, CHF, QT interval prolongation, and toxic epidermal necrolysis. These are serious and life threatening. (Nursing Central) It is also contraindicated for pregnant women and patients with iodine allergies. My patient may be at some high risk because of his many health complications and age, but currently the risks are not as beneficial as the therapeutic effects of the drug. Special precautions should be made if were to suffer from or develop any of the following conditions: cardiogenic shock, sever sinus node dysfunction, 2nd and 3rd AV block, or bradycardia. (Nursing …show more content…
Pulse should be taken and monitored every day for any abnormalities. Patients should be instructed to follows medication directions and not to skip doses. If a dose is missed they another should not be taken. Grape fruit juice should not be ingested while on Amiodarone. Due to photosensitivity reactions patients should wear sunscreen, wear protective sun blocking clothing, and be careful around windows. Patients should contact their primary care provider if any of the following occur: epididymisitis, signs of thyroid dysfunction, bluish color of the face or neck, or any signs of an allergic reaction. The patient taking the medication was not oriented and will most likely not return to his home. This means his wife and new care givers should be taught about his medication administration. He should also be seen by his primary care provider for regular checkups. There was a potential for him to start palliative care, if that is the case all of his medications should be discussed with the new palliative care team. (Nursing