ORS03 - Lecture 9 - Medical History

Question 1

What needs to be considered for patients whos suffered from Myocardial Infarction (heart attack)? (3)

Answer 1

MI causes irreversible myocardial damage and necrosis -> prolonged ischaemic injury

Avoid dental treatment until 3 months post MI

Patients most likely taking anti-coagulants or anti-platelets -> ↑ Risk of Bleeding

Question 2

What needs to be considered with patients that suffer from Asthma? (4)

Answer 2

Anxiety may induce an asthma attack -> keep patient calm + minimalise pain

Ensure patient has their inhaler ready if required

Assess severity of asthma (how many inalers, steroids, last asthma attack, hospital admissions)

Treat patients in an upright positon

Question 3

What needs to be considered with patients suffering from HIV?

Answer 3

Establish the date of HIV diagnosis

Identify viral load of patient (50K+ = high infectivity and progression, most patients should have <50)

Establish CD4+ count

Must be >200cells/mm blood

Analyse blood film for -> neutropenia and thrombocytopenia