ADVANCE PATHOPHYSIOIOGY
Scenario 4: A 27-year-old patient with a history of substance abuse is found unresponsive by emergency medical services (EMS) after being called by the patient’s roommate. The roommate states that he does not know how long the patient had been lying there. Patient received naloxone in the field and has become responsive. He complains of burning pain over his left hip and forearm. Evaluation in the ED revealed a large amount of necrotic tissue over the greater trochanter as well as the forearm. EKG demonstrated prolonged PR interval and peaked T waves. Serum potassium level 6.9 mEq/L.
Module 1 Assignment: Case Study Analysis
An understanding of cells and cell behavior is a critically important component of disease diagnosis and treatment. But some diseases can be complex in nature, with a variety of factors and circumstances impacting their emergence and severity.
Effective disease analysis often requires an understanding that goes beyond isolated cell behavior. Genes, the environments in which cell processes operate, the impact of patient characteristics, and racial and ethnic variables all can have an important impact.
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Hero Images
An understanding of the signals and symptoms of alterations in cellular processes is a critical step in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. For APRNs, this understanding can also help educate patients and guide them through their treatment plans.
In this Assignment, you examine a case study and analyze the symptoms presented. You identify cell, gene, and/or process elements that may be factors in the diagnosis, and you explain the implications to patient health.
To prepare:
By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to a specific case study for this Case Study Assignment. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignment from your Instructor.
THE ASSIGNMENT (1- TO 2-PAGE CASE STUDY ANALYSIS)
Develop a 1- to 2-page case study analysis in which you:
- Explain why you think the patient presented the symptoms described.
- Identify the genes that may be associated with the development of the disease.
- Explain the process of immunosuppression and the effect it has on body systems.
How to solve
NURS 6521 Module 1 Advanced Pathophysiology Case Study Analysis Nursing Assignment Help
In this case study analysis, we will examine the symptoms presented by a 27-year-old patient with a history of substance abuse who was found unresponsive. The patient received naloxone and became responsive but complained of burning pain over his left hip and forearm. Evaluation in the emergency department revealed necrotic tissue over the greater trochanter and forearm. Additionally, the patient had a prolonged PR interval and peaked T waves on an EKG, as well as a serum potassium level of 6.9 mEq/L.
1. Explanation of Symptoms:
Based on the presented symptoms, it is likely that the patient is experiencing compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome occurs when increased pressure within a confined space, such as a muscle compartment, impairs tissue perfusion. The patient’s burning pain and presence of necrotic tissue are consistent with the symptoms of compartment syndrome. Substance abuse can induce rhabdomyolysis, a condition characterized by muscle breakdown, leading to compartment syndrome.
2. Genes Associated with Disease Development:
While specific genetic factors may not be mentioned in this case study, it is important to consider the potential genetic predisposition to substance abuse. Various genes, such as those involved in the reward pathway (e.g., dopamine receptors), have been associated with an increased susceptibility to substance abuse. Understanding the genetic underpinnings can help in providing tailored interventions and treatment plans.
3. Process of Immunosuppression and its Effects:
Immunosuppression refers to the deliberate suppression of the immune system, usually for the prevention of organ rejection in transplantation or treatment of autoimmune diseases. Immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids and T-cell inhibitors, are used to dampen immune responses. However, immunosuppression can also occur as a consequence of certain diseases, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
Immunosuppression has profound effects on the body’s defense mechanisms. It impairs both innate and adaptive immunity, rendering the individual susceptible to infections and other complications. Infections can be severe and pose a significant risk to the patient’s health. Close monitoring of the immune system and judicious use of immunosuppressive medications are necessary to balance the desired therapeutic effects with the potential risks.
In summary, the presented patient’s symptoms are consistent with compartment syndrome, which may have been induced by substance abuse. While specific genes associated with the disease development are not mentioned, it is important to consider genetic factors in understanding susceptibility to substance abuse. Immunosuppression, either through medications or disease processes, can have significant effects on the body’s defense mechanisms and necessitates careful management.
