What You Need to Know About the Pneumococcal Vaccine

By Heather Zelhart, RN

Too many times I have taken care of older patients who come into the hospital with a diagnosis of pneumonia who have not had a pneumoccoccal vaccine. If you have not had this vaccine, the following information may aid you in deciding if the pneumococcal vaccine will benefit you.

First, let’s start with a review of the pneumococcal disease. The disease is spread from person to person by droplets in the air. Many people carry the bacteria in their nose and throat without ever developing the disease. Symptoms of the disease can include an abrupt onset of fever, shaking, chills, or rigor, chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, rapid breathing and heart rate, and weakness. The fatality rate is 5-7 % and may be much higher in the elderly. Young children and the elderly (those of you 65 years of age and older) have the highest incidence of serious disease. Treatment for the pneumococcal disease is usually penicillin. However, resistance to penicillin and other antibiotics used to treat this disease has been on the rise. This increases the difficulty of treating this disease which makes PREVENTION THROUGH VACCINATION EVEN MORE IMPORTANT!

The vaccination currently recommended for the elderly and for high risk patients is called PPV, or the polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine (that’s a mouthful!). The vaccine has been shown to provide approximately 60% protection against invasive disease in the elderly population. It is important to understand though PPV provides incomplete protection, especially in those with underlying high-risk conditions.

So, bottom line, if you are 65 years of age or older, and have not received the pneumococcal vaccine take charge of your health, and ASK YOUR PRIMARY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER ABOUT RECEIVING THE PPV TODAY! What do you have to lose?

References

Vila-Corcoles, A. (2007). Advances in Pneumococcal Vaccines: What are the
Advantages for the Elderly? Retrieved February 4, 2009, from
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Author unknown. (2007). Pneumococcal Vaccine Questions & Answers. Retrieved
February 4, 2009, from www.vaccineinformation.org

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Heather Zelhart RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The icontent of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.

Colorectal Cancer Screening

By: DeAngela Newell RN

Colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common diagnosed cancer. As of 2005 colorectal cancer was diagnosed in approximately 150,000 people annually. Colorectal cancer occurs anywhere within the large intestines and usually develops from a polyp (abnormal growth). These abnormal cells will continue to grow and multiply. Death rate for colorectal cancer is 45% higher in African Americans than Caucasians related mostly to lack of screening and healthcare for this condition.

Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer:
· Changes in bowel movements (constipation/diarrhea)
· Stool that is long and thin “pencil like”
· Abdominal discomfort/bloating
· Unexplained fatigue/weight loss

Risk Factors:
· Increased age (over 50) increases with each decade of life.
· Occurs equally in both men and women. Women generally develop colon cancer while men are more prone to rectal cancer.
· Polyps-history of polyps
· Medical history: history of ulcerative colitis, crohn’s disease, uterine, ovarian and breast cancer
· High fat diet/ low fiber diet increases you risk.
· Lifestyle factors: smoking, not exercising and being overweight.

Prevention:
· Diet: high fiber diet including 5 servings of fruit/vegetables. Low fat diet
· Screening: Rectal exam yearly or per PHCP advise. Fecal occult blood testing and colonoscopy.

Treatment for colorectal cancer varies depending on your individual results and can be best managed and determined between you and your Primary Health Care Provider.

References

Mauk, K. (2006). Gerontological Nursing, Competencies for care: P. 382. Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
www.webmd.com
www.americancancersociety.com

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of DeAngela Newell RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.

Combating Coronary Artery Disease by Decreasing Cholesterol

By Lora Devine

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition in which plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries. These arteries supply your heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood. This blood carries vital oxygen and nutrients needed by tissues and organs throughout the body. The heart itself is supplied with blood vessels called coronary arteries. When cholesterol levels rise above normal limits and stay high, some cholesterol is left behind in the arteries. In time, a hard waxy plaque builds in the arteries. This is called cholesterol reduces or blocks blood flow. Organs supplied by these arteries then become damaged because they cannot get the oxygen and nutrients they need. Sometimes bits of this hardened plaque breaks off and heads to the brain, this is called a Cerebrovascular Accident, also known as a stroke. When blood flow to the brain is blocked, a stroke occurs. When plaque completely blocks a coronary artery, a heart attack takes place. As we age our arteries can be more occluded from the foods we have eaten throughout our lifetime, putting the elderly at risk for heart attacks and stroke.
An important step in reducing the risk of having a heart attack or stoke is to manage cholesterol. A healthy lifestyle and being aware of risk factors can help you be proactive in your health management.

GET MOVING
Exercising is a great way to help you heart get a workout, as well decrease the odds of having a stroke. Exercising does not mean you have to run a marathon or have considerable speed or strength. Vigorous gardening, taking a walk with grandchildren, or exercising three to four time s a week. Staying moving for 30-40 minutes is beneficial to your heart health!

EAT RIGHT
Eating healthy can decrease your risk for stroke too. Think of the ”Fabulous Five” Fruits, Fiber, Folate, and Fish. Fruits, like apples and bananas. Fiber, found in vegetables and whole grains. Folate is found in spinach and broccoli. Fish, is high in Omega-3 Fatty acids like tuna and salmon help the heart. Decreasing sodium and saturated fats from your diet is a great start!

HAVE HOPE
Evaluate existing risk factors with HOPE! An easy way to remember some of the risks related to having a stroke is HOPE. Early evaluation of risk factors can help you and your healthcare provider make the necessary steps to monitor your health. Remembering to have HOPE can help evaluate if you are at risk for a heart attack or stroke. If you have one or more of the following risk factors contact your primary health care provider for further evaluation!

H -High blood pressure, High Cholesterol, High Blood Sugar, Heart Arrhythmias.
O -Obesity increases your risk of stroke and heart disease
P -Previous stroke or heart attack or family history
E -Engaging in drug use or heavy drinking


References

1. http://www.docguide.com/

2. http://www.healthline.com/

3. http://www.pennhealth.com/

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Lora Devine RN (pictured above) with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.

Breath Right, Live Right; Smoking Cessation in the Elderly

By: Misty Fritz RN

Smoking cessation is a very personal experience. Approximately 13% of people age 65 and older smoke, which accounts for over 300,000 deaths per year. For you readers ages 65 and older it’s definitely time to take back your lives.

For the elderly population who think it’s too late, YOUR WRONG! Statics show that older adults who smoke have more success at quitting than younger smokers. Quitting now can greatly reduce your risk of myocardial infarctions, coronary heart disease, and lung cancer.

There are several treatment available such as: Nicotine gums or patches, prescribed medications, and counseling. There’s no one way that works for everyone. It takes will power and dedication from your end to succeed. So talk to your primary health care provider about different methods or treatments available and what might work best for you or your loved one.

So get up and get out with a plan. Take back your life, your taste buds, and ability to breathe and smell again. It won’t be easy, but if your up for the challenge make a plan, which can be your road map to success. What are you waiting for get ready, get support, and get started. GOOD LUCK!!!

References

Author unknown (2006) Smoking Cessation. Retreived Feb. 4th, 2009, from http://www.cms.hhh.gov.smoking/.

PubMed (2008) Predicators of Smoking Cessation Among Elderly. Retrieved feb. 4th, 2009, from www.ncbi.nih.gov./pubmed.

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Misty Fritz RN (pictured above) with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.

A DASH to Stop Hypertension

By Krystle Banzuela

DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. Hypertension is blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg. Studies have shown that following a DASH eating plan can prevent and control hypertension. It can lower the systolic blood pressure (SBP) 8-14 mmHg, lower weight and lower LDL or the bad cholesterol, which all together will reduce the risk of getting heart and renal diseases.
A DASH eating plan is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and total fat. It emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products. It also includes whole grain products, fish, poultry, and nuts. It is reduced in lean red meat, sweets, added sugars, and sugar containing beverages. It is rich in potassium, magnesium and calcium, as well as protein and fiber. It contains less salt and sodium. 1500-2300 milligrams of sodium per day is recommended.
To make a DASH for life, start now and go slowly. Gradually increase the amount of fiber-rich foods you eat over several weeks to prevent bloating and diarrhea. Don’t stop taking prescribed blood pressure medications. Continue taking them and let your primary health care provider know that you are now eating the DASH way.

To learn and get more information, visit: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp/prevent/h_eating/h_eating.htm.
To download the Guide to lowering blood pressure with DASH, visit: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash/new_dash.pdf.

References:

Mauk, K.L. (2006). Gerontological nursing: Competencies for care. Masachusetts: Jones and Bartlett Publishes.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (n.d.). Your guide to lowering your blood pressure with DASH. Retrieved February 05, 2009, from http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash/new_dash.pdf.

Smeltzer, S. C., Bare, B. G., Hinkle, J. L. & Cheever, K. H. (2008). Brunner & Suddarth’s textbook of medical-surgical nursing (11th ed., Vol. 2). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Krystle Banzuela RN (pictured above) with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The cont of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.

Healthy Living

Healthy Living as You Age

By: Zondra Davis, Rn.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Early detection and management of disease is worth its weight in gold! Effectively treating existing disease -PRICELESS! Individuals who have the privilege to enjoy a long, healthy life also have the responsibility LIVE WELL. The following steps are sure to add quality to your life.

Laugh often. If you feel a loss of pleasure and interest for 2 or more weeks, this is not normal aging. Ask your primary health care provider for a depression screening. You deserve to feel better.

Immunizations offer protection against influenza and pneumonia. Get your flu vaccine every year and the pneumonia vaccine once (repeat after five years if recommended by your primary health care provider).

Verify your medications and their side effects with each visit to your primary health care provider and keep an updated list with you.

Eat a balanced diet with daily exercise under the supervision of your primary health care provider. Regular exercise improves balance and strength, and is your best protection against falls.

Weigh-in with friends and family. Regular interaction within a positive social network improves well being.

Engage in diagnostic screening test to screen for cancer, hypertension, hearing, and vision problems. Talk to your primary health care provider about other screening test, early detection of disease improves treatment options.

Leisure that stimulates the mind provides recreation and has cognitive benefits. Puzzles, bingo, reading, writing, and nature walks are examples of activities that benefit well-being.

List important numbers and appointments, this helps you stay organized and keep important medical appointments. Live your best life!!!

References

1. Mauk, K.L. (2006). Gerontological nursing: Competencies for care. Masachusetts: Jones and Bartlett Publishes.

2. www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/spotlite/falls

3. www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/screening

4. www.cdc.gov/vaccines/

5. www.mentalhelp.net/

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Zondra Davis RN (pictured above) with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.

By: Janella Schroeder RN

Natural Herbs and Vitamins Interact With Medications and Medical Conditions,
Elderly at Highest Risk

The concept of health promotion and primary disease prevention are growing trends in health care. With health awareness come more frequent doctor visits, more attention to lifestyle and diet choices and becoming more common is types of alternative medicine. Among the most common alternative medicine are natural herbal supplements and vitamins. The elderly have been quick to take part in this growing trend of “natural” medicine for varying reasons. Most are looking to supplement their diets and use herbs for health promotion and disease prevention. Unfortunately, some older adults turn to herbal supplements and vitamins due the high cost of prescription medication. Some are also looking for a more natural way to cure some aliment without going on another “medicine”.
It is extremely important to realize that herbal supplements and vitamins as natural as they may seem are still considered medication. The elderly are at higher risk for the side effect and drug interactions that herbal supplements and vitamins possess due to the increased multiple medications they are on and the decrease in kidney and liver function that comes with age. It is also vital that all consumers of herbal supplements and vitamins be aware that the evaluation of safeness and effectiveness of these substances is in the hands of the manufactures. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not test the actual substances sold nor does it test the claims the manufactures of the supplements make.
There are many health benefits to supplements, but it is essential to discuss the supplement choice and dose with your doctor or pharmacist. Dosing can mean the difference between beneficial results and detrimental side effects and vitamin toxicity that are more common among elderly partakers. The some common supplements that can cause fatal vitamin toxicity in the elderly are vitamin D, vitamin A, and vitamin B6. So many herbal supplements and even plain vitamins can have detrimental interactions with prescription medications. One of the most common vitamin supplements taken is calcium which can interact with antibiotics, diuretics, thyroid medications and many more. It cannot be stressed enough that just because a medication is over the counter does not mean it does not come with side effects and potential interactions and your doctor still needs to know that you take it even though it is not a “medication”.
If your doctor is unwilling to work with you in finding the right supplements and vitamins to work for your symptoms and current medications, either find a doctor who will or visit a pharmacist. There are many great resources that offer nonbiased online information on all medications including vitamins and supplements. Most importantly the source discusses possible side effects and potential drug interactions.
Supplements and vitamins can have great benefits and most are considered safe however it is not safe to self-diagnosis and self-medicate, no matter what your age. Unfortunately with age comes more complications in taking these natural substances, so before you try them, please discuss them with a health care professional. Most importantly, consider every pill, cream, tea, or solution you ingest a medication and tell your doctor you are on it.


References

Drug Digest: http://www.drugdigest.org/wps/portal/ddigest

Beatty, E. (2007). Herbal Supplements and the Elderly. Retrieved 2 5, 2009, from Resources For Seniors: www.resourcesforseniors.com/pharm_essays/herbal%20supplements.doc

Mauk, K. (2006). Gerontological Nursing. Sudbury: Jones and Bartlett.

T. B. (2002). Vitamin toxicity. Retrieved 2 5, 2009, from Life Steps: http://www.lifesteps.com/gm/Atoz/ency/vitamin_toxicity.jsp

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Janella Schroeder RN (pictured above) with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.