Introduction
The main topic of the previous module was pneumonia and the methods of its treatment. One study compared mortality rates between de-escalation techniques and the continuation of empiric therapy in patients with community-acquired pneumonia. The study was conducted among patients with community-acquired pneumonia, as well as cases of negative culture. Patients with pneumonia caused by such pathogens as Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Klebsiella pneumoniae generally accepted de-escalation as a safe practice depending on specific recommendations. On the other hand, the culture-negative patients required much deeper research regarding limiting antimicrobial exposure. The narrowing of the drug spectrum did not have a positive effect on their treatment and worsened the overall condition.
Key Pneumonia Treatment Ideas from Week 9 Case Studies
During the case discussion, it became clear that community-acquired pneumonia is mainly caused by S. pneumoniae, Mycoplasma spp., H. influenzae, and Staphylococcus. APRN should take a sputum culture for recognizing the underlying cause of the condition and select the appropriate treatment. The use of penicillin antibiotics is not allowed due to the high risk of allergies. The amount and intensity of the drug should match the weight of the patient and the type of pathogen. The main side effects include nausea, anorexia, vomiting, and diarrhea; using azithromycin can help decrease undesired symptoms. It is also vital to complete the patient’s treatment plan with probiotics. Particular probiotics can help reduce the duration of abdominal pain and the severity of stomach issues. Azithromycin can not be considered the fittest de-escalation strategy due to the side symptoms such as vomiting and anorexia. The reasonable approach is to provide supportive care with a safe antiemetic. The main objective of this strategy is to alleviate the negative side effects of antibiotic therapy by probiotic supplements.
Diagnostics and Treatment of Women’s and Men’s Health; HIV Treatment
At the moment, this topic is gaining popularity due to the increasing awareness of people in this matter. Topics can include various subjects such as diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of hypogonadism, HIV transmission, menopause process management, and so on. HIV infection does not have specific symptoms; all signs can refer to other infectious and non-infectious diseases combined with immunodeficiency. However, some symptoms of acute HIV infection can be identified during the diagnostics: swollen lymph nodes, fever, rash, inflammation of the tonsils, weakness, headaches. There is currently no drug that can completely cure HIV, but it can significantly prolong life and prevent the development of AIDS. The doctor is obliged to investigate and clarify the source of infection and the possible further spread of the virus. Therefore, a person with HIV will have questions regarding any situations associated with the possibility of transmission. After the diagnosis is established, the stage of the disease is determined, and treatment for HIV infection is prescribed. Thoughtful communication with a doctor, discussion of all emerging issues is part of treatment adherence. He will evaluate the possible side effects and adjust the ART regimen.
Conclusion
Treatment of any disease should be under the supervision of a specialist and consider all individual characteristics of the patient. One treatment suggestion might be to advise using the US Preventive Services Task Force, where primary care and prevention professionals measure and evaluate the effectiveness of different methods. Each case should be accompanied by a detailed study and selection of an individual treatment program.
References
St. Louis, MO: ElsevierYamana, H., Matsui, H., Tagami, T., Hirashima, J., Fushimi, K., & Yasunaga, H. (2016). De-escalation versus continuation of empirical antimicrobial therapy in community-acquired pneumonia. Journal of Infection, 73(4), 314–325. Web.
Mayo Clinic: COPD (2020).
Montaner, J. S. G., Lima, V. D., Harrigan, P. R., Lourenço, L., Yip, B., Nosyk, B., … Kendall, P. (2014). Expansion of HAART coverage is associated with sustained decreases in HIV/AIDS morbidity, mortality and HIV transmission: The “HIV Treatment as Prevention” experience in a Canadian setting. PLoS ONE, 9(2), e87872.
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. (2014). Guide to clinical preventive services, 2014: Section 2. Recommendations for adults.