communicating information Flashcards
why should you never stop steroids abruptly?
can cause Addisonian crisis
what do steroids increase the risk of?
diabetes mellitus, hypertension, osteoporosis, gastric irritation
what should you give alongside starting steroid therapy?
bisphosphonates, PPI/H2
why should you be cautious if a patient is unwell and takes Ramipril?
because there is risk of acute AKI. be wary in D&V and especially in the elderly.
when should you check kidney function after starting ACEI?
1-2 weeks after starting it.
what does ACEI do to potassium?
causes hyperkalaemia
what does tamoxifen increase the risk of
VTE, endometrial cancer
what is the risk of sulfonylureas and what should you advise patients?
ie gliclazide. careful not to miss meals, as sulfonylureas increase the risk of having hypoglycaemic episodes. (but metformin does NOT)
how often is methotrexate taken?
once weekly
whats the INR aim for a patient who has had a DVT/PE/AF? what about if they have recurrent DVTs or mechanical prosthetic valves?
2.5 for DVT/PE/AF. if recurrent of prosthetic valves aim for 3.5.
what colour are warfarin tablets?
0.5mg White, 1mg Brown, 3mg Blue, Pink 5mg.
how do you take bisphosphonates?
swallow with full glass water
sit up for 30 minutes
avoid food for 2 hours after taking it
do not take at the same time as AdCal (calcium) as this reduces absorption.
how often do you taken alendronic acid?
once weekly
