Not exact matches
Hepatic encephalopathy occurs when the liver can not remove certain toxins and chemicals, such
as ammonia, from the blood.1 These toxins and chemicals then build up and enter the brain.1 Hepatic encephalopathy is one of the major complications of cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), and a leading cause of hospital re-admission due to its recurrence, despite treatment.1 It can occur suddenly in people with acute liver failure, but is seen more often in those with
chronic liver
disease.1 Symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy include mild confusion, forgetfulness, poor concentration and personality or mood changes, but can
progress to extreme anxiety, seizures, severe confusion, jumbled and slurred speech and slow movement.1 The first step in treatment is to identify and treat any factors that cause hepatic encephalopathy.2 Once the episode has resolved, further treatment aims to reduce the production and absorption of toxins, such
as ammonia.1 Generally, there are two types of medication used to reduce the likelihood of another hepatic encephalopathy episode — lactulose and rifaximin.2 However, it remains a leading cause of hospitalisations and re-hospitalisations in cirrhotic patients, despite the use of the above - mentioned standard of care treatment.
Chronic kidney
disease is a growing epidemic, and while there has been significant
progress in protecting against kidney
disease and its progression through aggressive treatment of risk factors such
as hypertension and diabetes, many people still experience declining kidney function
as they age.
We must begin to look at
chronic diseases, such
as hepatitis C, from every angle, which should inspire
progress in developing more tolerable and effective cures,» added Dr. Younossi.
As the
disease progresses, a
chronic cough may be heard and an even greater exercise intolerance may be noticed.
The
chronic kidney (renal)
disease is usually a gradual process that begins
as renal insufficiency and
progresses to full renal failure.
The
disease can
progress to cause
chronic joint problems
as well
as heart and neurological problems.
• Provide education and orientation to patients and their families regarding hospital procedures • Assist patients in understanding the role medication and medical procedures will play in making them well • Develop care plans in accordance to patients»
diseases and symptoms • Monitor and ensure that the care plan is being carried out in an effective manner • Resolve any problems that may affect the progression and efficacy of care plans • Foster peer support and expedite completion of tests • Review doctors» schedules and sync them with patients» appointments • Act
as a liaison between care providers and patients • Take patient history and record information in preset hospital database • Work with medical staff to control
disease symptoms • Create and implement
disease management modules for
chronic diseases • Obtain and verify insurance information • Explain the function of each health team member to patients and families • Document patient care initiatives and services on a constant basis • Ensure that appropriate referrals are made for patients not accepted for care • Schedule surgeries and prepare patient charts • Handle payment collection activities and transcribe clinical correspondence • Make sure that patients are kept aware of their
progress • File and re-file patient records at the end of each shift • Ensure that all procedures are carried out in a time efficient manner and in accordance to patient care plans
Mr Cooke said the lack of
progress in tackling the high levels of
chronic disease and disability emphasises the importance of making primary health care
as culturally appropriate and accessible
as possible.