MISCELLANEOUS CARE

CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE)

1. To help reduce itching and swelling, apply cool compresses to the eye(s) 3-4 times per day for 10-15 minutes using a clean washcloth each time.
2. Medications in the form of ointments, drops or pills can help to kill germs, relieve allergic symptoms, and/or decrease the discomfort. If the conjunctivitis is due to a viral cold or flu, follow the steps advised by your nurse practitioner or doctor.
3. Wash your hands frequently and keep them away from your eyes. In addition, dispose of old eye makeup and avoid rubbing your eyes. You should also wear sunglasses if your eyes become sensitive to light.
4. Use a clean pillowcase every night and avoid wearing contact lenses.
5. Keep in mind that you should not share any cosmetics, washcloths or towels with anyone at this time.

Note: Notify your doctor or nurse practitioner if you experience any visual changes, severe eye pain or fever over 101° F. Also, seek medical attention if no improvement occurs with medication within 48-72 hours or if drainage continues after you have completed the full course of medication.

Source: University of Texas, 1995

DIARRHEA

1. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of clear fluids, such as water, juices, or sports drinks.
2. Over-the-counter medications that contain pectin (e.g. Kaopectate™) aid in solidifying stools. Other over-the-counter medications inhibit cramps and diarrhea (e.g. Imodium A-D™). Use as directed. It is important to note that these anti-diarrheal medications should not be used within the first six to eight hours of onset of diarrhea.
3. For the first 24-48 hours, avoid alcohol, caffeine drinks, fruits, milk and fatty foods.
4. Try reducing your physical activity. Too much activity increases bowel movements.

Note: Consult your doctor or nurse practitioner if diarrhea is black or bloody and/or persists for more than 48 hours after following self-care. Also, seek medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain and/or dehydration (i.e., increased thirst, dark yellow or limited urination, and/or wrinkled skin with no tone).

Source: Pfeiffer & Douma, 1996

FEVER

1. If your temperature is higher than 101° F., it is considered a fever. To aid in fever reduction, try using acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol™). Use as directed.
2. It is important to drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink caffeine drinks.
3. Sponge your skin with lukewarm water. Evaporation will have a cooling effect on the skin and bring heat to the surface.
4. Rest and limit your activity.

Note: Contact your doctor or nurse practitioner immediately if fever lasts longer than five days and/or if fever is combined with a stiff neck, bad cough, or other severe problems. Consult your doctor if fever of 102° F. or greater has not been reduced after 24 hours of self-care.

Source: Pfeiffer & Douma, 1996

STOMACH FLU

1. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of clear fluids, such as water or sports drinks. Do not eat solid foods for the first 24 hours. Gradually begin bland foods such as toast and oatmeal and soups.
2. If your temperature is higher than 101° F., try using acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol™) to aid in fever reduction. Use as directed. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen if you are already vomiting (they will further upset your stomach).

Note: Consult your doctor or nurse practitioner if you are dehydrated (i.e., increased thirst, dark yellow or limited urination, and/or wrinkled skin with no tone). Also, seek medical attention if you have abdominal pain in the lower right part of the abdomen, have a fever greater than 102° F. and/or vomiting that occurs on and off for more than 12 hours. If diarrhea is bloody or black, consult a physician.

Source: Pfeiffer & Douma, 1996

 

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