Nurses Edge zm

This blood sample was drawn today from a patient who came in with severe abdominal pain, along with pain and numbness in their legs and feet. Initially, the blood appeared red, but after sitting for a while, it started to resemble strawberry milk. This is due to extremely high triglyceride levels caused by excessive alcohol consumption. After receiving fluids, the patient had to be sent to the ER. Let me make this clear for anyone who’s focused on the wrong priorities: THIS IS A RESULT OF HEAVY ALCOHOL DRINKING! If this feels directed at you, then it probably is. Remember, no amount of fun is worth risking your life!

Photo courtesy: Darnell Benally

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KNOW THE DIFFERENCE: Better Approach to Treatment

Understanding the root cause of a condition is essential for effective treatment. Let’s break it down:

1. Patient A: Ringworm

Root Cause: Ringworm is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, not an actual worm.

✅️Treatment Principle: Since fungi are the root cause, using antifungal medication is the solution.

➡️Treatment Options:

👉Topical Antifungals: Clotrimazole, Terbinafine cream.

👉Oral Antifungals: For severe or widespread infections, terbinafine or itraconazole tablets may be prescribed.

✅️✅️Key Point: Deworming medicines target parasitic worms, not fungi, and will be ineffective here.

2. Patient B: Cutaneous Larva Migrans (Hookworm Infection)

✅️Root Cause: This condition is caused by the larvae of hookworms, such as Ancylostoma species, which pe*****te the skin.

➡️Treatment Principle: Since parasitic worms are involved, anthelmintic medications are required.

Treatment Options:

👉👉Topical Anthelmintics: Thiabendazole cream.

👉👉Oral Anthelmintics: Ivermectin or albendazole tablets may be necessary for more extensive cases.

✅️✅️Key Point: Antifungal medicines will not help because the issue is not fungal but parasitic.

➡️➡️➡️Why Knowing the Difference Matters:
Using the wrong treatment delays healing and can worsen symptoms. By understanding the underlying cause—fungal vs. parasitic—pharmacists and patients can work together for effective care.

✅️✅️✅️Pro Tip: Always consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for tailored advice and to ensure you’re using the right medicine for your condition.

Pharmacist Who Cares