Reference no: EM133769168
Nursing Scenario
Patient G.G., 66 years old, presented to the healthcare facility with significant symptoms of right ear pain. After taking Claritin, the patient reported maxillary sinus pain extending to the ear. The patient also reported hearing difficulties, loss of balance, and sleeping problems. These symptoms, along with physical examinations that showcased fluid in the patient's eardrum, redness, high fever, and ear reddening, indicated a potentially serious condition.
Patient Assessment, Plan of Care, and Differential Diagnoses
A comprehensive physical and medical examination was conducted, a testament to my growing competence and confidence to fully conceptualize the patient's health issue and inform the treatment and care plan. Physical examinations included examining the patient's body temperature, eardrum bulging, fluid presence, and overall appearance (Hayashi et al., 2020). The otoscopic examination showcased yellow fluid in the patient's eardrum, a bulging, reddened ear, and an immobile tympanic membrane. The patient's engagement in swimming and a genetic link of the ear disease to the patient's parent is another factor considered in the assessment. Based on the lab test, environmental triggers, genetic history, and physical examination, I diagnosed the patient's ear pain due to otitis media. Differential diagnoses included external otitis, otitis media with effusion, and herpes zoster infection, ruled out based on the clinical manifestations and otoscopic examinations.
The patient was administered acetaminophen for pain relief and anti-inflammation effects. A further pharmacological intervention I prescribed to the patient was antibiotics to counter the underlying bacterial cause of the ear infection. The care plan outlined comprehensive patient education regarding managing the ear condition and adhering to the medication dosage. Also, I let the patient know to avoid extended dampness to the ear to avoid reinfection.
Health Promotion Intervention
Nursing health promotion interventions I provided to the patient included acetaminophen administration to alleviate ear pain and antibiotics to address the bacterial cause of the condition (Gaddey et al., 2019). To promote the patient's health, I extensively educated him on preventative strategies for ear infections and the need to keep her ear dry to avoid bacterial growth. Additionally, I encouraged the patient to follow an ear checkup every three months for earlier detection of ear health issues and to observe hygienic measures to prevent bacterial growth.
Lessons from the Week's Clinical Experience
This week's experience was enlightening and gave me insights into my future career as an advanced nurse practitioner. One valuable lesson I learned was the importance of applying nursing theories, principles, and evidence-based practices in assessing patients with ear diseases and developing a comprehensive care plan (Ryder et al., 2023). My collaboration with my preceptor at the healthcare facility also taught me the significance of interdisciplinary and team collaboration in delivering quality care to patients. As an advanced nurse practitioner, I recognize that practical collaboration skills are essential for working with other healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care for patients.