Understanding Dementia Medication Side Effects: A Guide for Families
Discover the potential side effects of dementia medications and how to support your loved one. Stay informed!
Read MoreUnderstanding Dementia Medication Side Effects: A Guide for FamiliesThe Benefits of Deprescribing Medications in Hospice: A Guide for Patients, Families, and Hospice Nurses
I know how important it is to provide comfort and support during this challenging journey. One aspect of hospice care that often raises concerns is deprescribing medications. In this article, we'll explore what deprescribing is and why it can benefit patients nearing the end of life.
Read MoreThe Benefits of Deprescribing Medications in Hospice: A Guide for Patients, Families, and Hospice NursesStatins Increase the Risk of Dementia or Worsening Dementia
Pharmaceutical advertisements often highlight the benefits of a particular drug, including its ability to reduce the risk of various health conditions. However, the actual risk reduction these drugs provide may differ from what is portrayed in the advertisements. It is the opinion of the author that if cardiologists and other providers told their patients the absolute risk reduction of statins is 0.8% for all-cause mortality, 1.3% for myocardial infarction and 0.4% for stroke and the side effects of going on a statin include dementia, worsening dementia, confusion, muscle problems, such as aches, pains, weakness, muscle breakdown, falls, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, would you or anyone else ever agree to take a statin?
Read MoreStatins Increase the Risk of Dementia or Worsening DementiaEarly Detection of Serotonin Syndrome in Dementia Patients: Three Case Studies
Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by an excess of serotonin in the body. Detecting this condition early is crucial, but it can be particularly challenging when dealing with dementia patients due to communication barriers and the complexity of their symptoms. In this article, we will present three case studies that highlight the early detection and successful management of serotonin syndrome in patients with different types of dementia: Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy Body Dementia.
Read MoreEarly Detection of Serotonin Syndrome in Dementia Patients: Three Case StudiesUnderstanding Serotonin Syndrome: A Comprehensive Guide
Hospice nurses assess the status of the patient's journey towards end-of-life every nursing visit. There are situations where a reversible condition arises that can drastically impact the patient, the hospice assessment, and if it is not caught, potentially mistreated leading to increased discomfort and a faster death often involving increased suffering. One of the common clues someone is getting closer to dying is increased agitation and restlessness. Are you aware of Serotonin Syndrome? A drug-induced condition whose early signs and symptoms can mimic that of someone getting closer to death? A situation that, unlike the natural dying process, is treatable and reversible?
Read MoreUnderstanding Serotonin Syndrome: A Comprehensive GuideMy Loved One with Dementia
This article helps families and caregivers better understand Dementia. There are many types of Dementia, with the most common being Alzheimer’s, which accounts for approximately 60% of cases. Each type has its particularities, but all involve an increasing inability to make safe choices regarding daily living activities. Dementia in General Dementia is a…