Healthcare Traveler - May 2008 - (Page 39)

to avoid large doses of these vitamins—that is, anything over the recommended daily allowance. Patients receiving radiation therapy should always ask their RadiationOncologist before continuing or starting any medication or vitamin. Rebecca Ann Ruppert, RN, MS Specific symptoms linked to Ovarian CA Ovarian cancer is frequently called the “silent killer,” but recent research shows that women with ovarian cancer do present with subtle physical symptoms, even in early stages. A study reported in Cancer found that urinary urgency or frequency, pelvic/abdominal pain, increased abdominal size/bloating and difficulty eating/feeling full were associated with ovarian cancer when symptoms were present less than one year but occurred more than 12 days per month. Teach women to watch for these symptoms, and encourage women to track them and report them to their healthcare provider as soon as possible. Women who feel these symptoms more than 12 times per month for a period of less than a year should be evaluated for potential ovarian cancer. Jennifer L.W. Fink, RN, BSN Treatment for depression Depression is a treatable illness, but getting appropriate treatment is not always easy. A recent study by Mental Health America found that less than one-third of people who seek treatment receive minimally adequate care. Barriers to care include cost, difficulty navigating the healthcare system, and lack of availability of mental health professionals. Depression itself is also a barrier: depressed people frequently lack the energy and motivation necessary to seek adequate care. Remind patients that depression is treatable, and help them to seek treatment. You can provide contact information, or help set up an appointment with a mental health professional. Also encourage patients to stick to any prescribed treatment. Antidepressants may take time to work; letting patients know what to expect can help. Instruct patients to report any unpleasant side effects, rather than quitting the medication on their own. A doctor can help them wean off the medication, if necessary, and find another, more appropriate treatment. Jennifer L.W. Fink, RN, BSN This department originally appeared in RN, a sister publication. For subscription information, call 800-284-8945 or visit www.rnweb.com. Circle Career Card No. 604 May 2008 Healthcare Traveler 39 http://www.bannerhealth.com http://www.bannerhealth.com http://www.rnweb.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Healthcare Traveler - May 2008

Healthcare Traveler - May 2008 Editor's Desk Contents In a Flash Paws for Thought Field Notes Cardiac Care at the Heart of Many Travelers Careers The Current Economy Clinical Tips Drug Update On Assignment Name It When In Advertisers' Index Good for You Tax Facts Big Deals Contest Rules Starter's Kit Going the Distance Tales from the Road Allied Corner Classifieds

Healthcare Traveler - May 2008

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