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Disclaimer: All information published by "Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE" is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.

What are the post operative needs and expectations for a geriatric patient receiving surgery for an inguinal hernia? How long is the recovery period? the patient's wife has severe back problems and has limited capacity to care for her husband. Are the services of a visiting nurse advisable or is this surgery done in such a way that the recovery is relatively quick now?

I am 6 months pregnant and my doctor prescribed Tylenol 3 with codeine for tonsillitis. Is it safe to take Tylenol 3 with codeine? The doctor knows I am pregnant but he's not an OB doctor.

Can codeine cause leg pain and leg cramps? Can it cause blood clots? I take is for painful periods every month. I do not take much, but lately I have noticed pain in my calf when I take it. The pain in my calf is only there when I take Tylenol 3, even only one.

My family has just bought an ear thermometer and we have three children, ages 9, 12 & 14 (Boys) and when They aren't feeling well and feverish this seems to be a poor substitute, Orally is seems so often that all boys have difficulty due to mouth breathing, one pediatrician office still takes rectal when Oral isn't working I feel this is best too, but wanted to know a professional Nurses' opinion.

I'm going for my first adult physical/gynecology exam soon. What can I expect?

If you are allergic to Penicillin, how close can you get without an allergic reaction?

What are the symptoms for low electrolytes?

I get dizzy, have more gas than usual and feel very weak with hot flashes. It has been for the past few weeks and I am very concerned. Whenever I get this feeling, I have a craving to eat something sweet, and, as soon as I do I feel much better.

What are the post operative needs and expectations for a geriatric patient receiving surgery for an inguinal hernia? How long is the recovery period? the patient's wife has severe back problems and has limited capacity to care for her husband. Are the services of a visiting nurse advisable or is this surgery done in such a way that the recovery is relatively quick now?

The questions you have regarding post-op care of an elderly man, depends on so many factors: age, medical/surgical history, severity of the hernia, the surgical procedure, the recovery ability of the patient, etc. The orthopedic surgeon/primary care physician, based on all the above, can make this decision. Home care for Medicare patients who are homebound and require skilled nursing/rehabilitative care, are eligible for home care services from a Certified Home Care Agency like Visiting Nurse Services in Westchester at (914) 682-1480. The physician must make and approve referral for home care services.

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I am 6 months pregnant and my doctor prescribed Tylenol 3 with codeine for tonsillitis. Is it safe to take Tylenol 3 with codeine? The doctor knows I am pregnant but he's not an OB doctor.

The first three months are critical for any effect on the embryo. We recommend that you consult with your obstetrician regarding any concerns or questions you have regarding the use of this medication during pregnancy.

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Can codeine cause leg pain and leg cramps? Can it cause blood clots? I take is for painful periods every month. I do not take much, but lately I have noticed pain in my calf when I take it. The pain in my calf is only there when I take Tylenol 3, even only one.

The drug references do not specifically mention blood clots with the use of Tylenol with Codeine. People have different sensitivities or reactions to drugs. Whether the pain is associated with your menstrual periods or related to some problem with circulation in your leg or calf should be ruled out. I recommend that you consult with your physician regarding your concerns.

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My family has just bought an ear thermometer and we have three children, ages 9, 12 & 14 (Boys) and when They aren't feeling well and feverish this seems to be a poor substitute, Orally is seems so often that all boys have difficulty due to mouth breathing, one pediatrician office still takes rectal when Oral isn't working I feel this is best too, but wanted to know a professional Nurses' opinion.

Both rectal and oral are satisfactory for your three children, if they are done properly following the directions. Ear thermometer also should work well, again following written directions. In summary, any of these three are good. If you have further questions or concerns, consult with their pediatrician.

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I'm going for my first adult physical/gynecology exam soon. What can I expect?

Your physician will first take a medical history, do a complete physical exam including blood pressure, chest/lung exam, abdominal exam including reproductive organs in the pelvic area. You should request that the physician explain the entire procedure before taking the exam. Do not be afraid to ask questions and let him/her know your concerns.

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If you are allergic to Penicillin, how close can you get without an allergic reaction?

Once you are allergic to penicillin, you will always be. Never take the drug again and absolutely consult with your physician regarding your questions and concerns. Taking it again can cause severe allergic reactions and could be fatal depending on your sensitivity to the drug.

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What are the symptoms for low electrolytes?

The symptoms can vary from fluid retention (low urinary output), dizziness, nausea, mental status changes, lethargy, confusion, etc. Your age, diagnosis, any therapy you are on and medical history are all important to determine what effects, if any, they may have on your electrolyte levels. Consult with your physician and pharmacist for any questions or concerns that you may have regarding this.

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I get dizzy, have more gas than usual and feel very weak with hot flashes. It has been for the past few weeks and I am very concerned. Whenever I get this feeling, I have a craving to eat something sweet, and, as soon as I do I feel much better.

Your symptoms can be due to many causes, possibly a gastro-intestinal problem or other causes. Your age, medical history, must be considered and a physical examination by your physician are recommended to determine the diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Disclaimer: All information published by "Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE" is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.

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