Running head: PHARMACOLOGY CASE STUDY
Pharmacology Case Study
Michelle Blythers
Columbus State University
Professional Clinical Nursing RN 1
NURS 3191
Mrs. Amanda Hawkins
September 21, 2013
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PHARMACOLOGY CASE STUDY
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Pharmacology Case Study
As we grow older, our use of medications rise as we treat diseases and disorders that
occur as a result of ageing. The elderly are more likely to take multiple medications, and to be
sensitive to effects, both therapeutic and adverse. With the growing number of prescription
medicines available and a growing population of older adults, the potential for medication safety
problems is expanding (Pfizer, 2011). Health care providers must make every effort to ensure
that the elderly take medications properly and are adequately informed of resources that may aid
in prescription cost.
In the given case study, the 66 year old female that presented to the emergency room
displayed a need for education and resources. If I had been her nurse, I would have briefly and
clearly explained her illnesses and medications in terms that she could easily understand. I would
have made as effort to create an environment that was comfortable and permitted her to comment
and ask questions.
First, I would explain to her that hypertension (high blood pressure) is a common illness
in which the blood pressure is repetitively higher that 140/90. Over time, if the force of the blood
flow is often too high, the tissue that makes up the walls of arteries gets stretched beyond its
healthy limit (American Heart Association [AHA], 2012). She should be informed that high
blood pressure does not necessarily mean that a person is tense, nervous, or hyperactive. It has
nothing to do with personality traits, truth is, that you can be a calm relaxed person and still have
high blood pressure (American Heart Association [AHA], 2012). I would tell that Zestril is
prescribed to help keep her blood pressure within normal limits. She would be encouraged to
check her blood pressure when she is relaxed. We would also discuss exercise and eating habits.
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Next, we would talk in plain terms about type 2 diabetes. It is commonly called “sugar”.
People develop type 2 diabetes because the cells in the muscles, liver and fat do not use insulin
properly (Sollitto, 2013). Explain that the HgA1c is a test designed to determine how well her
diabetes is being controlled and is usually taken every three months. The goal for individuals
with diabetes is to be less than 7%. A higher result could mean a greater risk for developing
complications associated to diabetes. She would be educated on the desired parameters of FSBS.
Desired readings are, 70-130 before meals and less than 180, 1-2 hours after meals. I would
teach her that exercise decreases the body’s need for insulin, the importance of good nutrition
and taken Glucophage as prescribed by the doctor.
I would also discuss hyperlipidemia, which is generally called high cholesterol. After our
discussion she would understand that is was basically too may fats in the blood and that making
healthier food choices and exercise could help lower cholesterol. I would encourage a high fiber
diet (whole wheat, rye, grains, and brands) and limiting her intake of eggs and red meats. I would
encourage her to continue to take the prescribed Zocor.
Many older adults, like the elderly lady in the case study, have several chronic illnesses
and are required to purchase several medications on a fixed income. In addition, they may
subject themselves to other financial responsibilities. Since the lady if the study felt compelled to
assist her son, I would emphasize the importance of maintaining her health. I would not make
any derogatory remarks are make any judgments regarding her son. I would initiate a social
services consult. I would recommend that she buy generic medications whenever possible and
ask the physician for samples.
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References
American Heart Association. (2012).What is high blood pressure? Retrieved from
http://heart.org/HEARTORG/conditions/highbloodpressure/abouthighbloodpressure/what
-is-high-blood-pressure_UCM_301759Articles.js
Medication safety for the elderly: A guide for patients and caregivers. (2011). Retrieved from
http://www.pfizer.com/files/health/medicine_safety/46_Med_Safety_for_Elderly.pdf
Sollitto, M. (2013). Type2: The most common form of diabetes. Retrieved from
http://www.agingcare.com/Articles/type-2-diabetes-impacts-elders-most-144703.htm