Enema Procedures and Ostomy Care: A Comprehensive Overview
Enema Procedures
An enema is defined as the introduction of a solution into the rectum or the lower colon. The contents are drained by natural means or by artificial stimulation of intestinal peristalsis. Enemas are used to clean and remove solids or gas from the intestine, and to administer solutions to be retained.
According to their purpose, enemas can be classified as follows:
Ordinary Enemas
Ordinary enemas are solutions that are administered and expelled within 10 minutes. The expelled soap solution
Read MoreOrthodontic Treatment: Risks, Complications, and Side Effects
Orthodontic Treatment: Potential Risks and Complications
Orthodontic treatment offers recognized benefits, including improvements in dental health, function, appearance, and self-esteem. However, it also carries potential risks that can be dental, skeletal, medical, or psychological. Therefore, the decision to proceed with orthodontics requires a careful comparison of risks with potential benefits. It is crucial that all dentists, even those not performing orthodontic treatment, are aware of these
Read MoreKey Medications: Uses, Mechanisms, and Side Effects
Phenytoin
Definition
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant used to control seizures in epilepsy.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)
Phenytoin works by stabilizing neuronal membranes and reducing the spread of seizure activity through the brain by inhibiting voltage-gated sodium channels.
Uses
- Generalized tonic-clonic seizures
- Partial seizures
- Status epilepticus
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
Common side effects include gingival hyperplasia, ataxia, dizziness, and rash. Severe reactions may include blood dyscrasias, hepatotoxicity,
Read MoreSubjective Global Assessment: Evaluating Nutritional Status
Subjective Global Assessment
- A) Anthropometry
- B) Biochemical data
- C) Physical examination
- D) Dietary assessment
- Changes in weight and height
- Changes in food intake
- Gastrointestinal symptoms > 2 weeks
- Functional capacity
- Disease and its relation to nutritional needs
Epidemiology and Physical Activity: Impact on Health
Epidemiology: Understanding Disease Patterns
Epidemiology is the science that investigates and quantifies the various factors determining the occurrence and patterns of disease within a particular group or community. It seeks to generalize this information to a larger population to better understand, modify, or control the pattern of diseases or health problems (McArdle, Katch, & Katch, 1998). Epidemiology establishes the magnitude of a given health problem, identifies the factors causing this
Read MoreUnderstanding Drugs: Effects, Types, and Neurotransmission
What are Drugs?
Drugs are substances that can cause dependence, stimulation, or depression of the central nervous system, leading to disruptions in judgment, behavior, or mood. In pharmacology and medicine, “drug” refers to the active ingredient used for treatment or prevention of diseases. However, socially, “drug” often denotes harmful, abused substances.
To be considered a drug, a substance must:
- Be introduced into a living organism and alter its functions.
- Lead to repeated use due to the pleasure