Nephrology eConsult
Chronic Kidney Disease
SPECIALTY
Nephrology eConsult
CHIEF COMPLAINT
Chronic Kidney Disease
COMMENTS TO SPECIALIST
This female with active medical conditions: DM2, HTN, CKD4, dementia, GERD and OSA. is a 76 y/o AA s/p 12-day hospitalization from 5/28 through 6/9 for toxic encephalopathy and tremors. Work-ups while hospitalized included UA, CT head, VBG, TSH, ammonia, and B12, all of which were unremarkable. MRI brain negative for acute stroke. EEG negative. Her Zyprexa and Tramadol were discontinued, and weaning of Baclofen began with noted improvement. She was provided IV hydration for AKI with improvement back to baseline of CKD 4.
MAIN QUESTION
She was sent to SNF. Veltassa 8.4 mg once a day. The series of BMP showed potassium ranging from 3.7-3.9. She continued to have watery stools on colostomy output. Today, her creatinine is up to 3.43 BUN of 40 from 1.87/22 last 06/19/23. I plan to give her a slow IV x2 L. I am giving her D5.45 at 80 ml/h for 1 L daily x2 doses. Pharmacy supplies do not have 0.45 NS. I have the renal panel and magnesium orders for Monday, 07/03/ 23. I am seeking further recommendations from this nephrology eConsult.
Patient Education for Informed Decision-Making
In today’s complex world of healthcare, it’s more important than ever for people to have the knowledge they need to make wise decisions about their well-being. Patient education is a key part of this process, and it’s about more than just passing along information. It is important to know how educating patients is vital in helping them truly grasp the reasons for referrals and their array of healthcare choices.
This kind of understanding isn’t only about better health for individuals; it’s also about making healthcare systems run more smoothly and effectively. In a time when being well-informed about healthcare options is at the heart of receiving the best care, it’s crucial to explore how educating your patient can have a significant impact.
eConsults in Lieu of a Referral
Educating patients about eConsults is vital, as it enhances access to specialized care by offering a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to traditional referrals. eConsults are effective at reducing long wait times and can potentially save both patients and the healthcare system money.
eConsults empowers patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, minimizing unnecessary referrals, and aligns with patient-centered care principles by ensuring individuals have a say in their healthcare journey and choose the most suitable mode of treatment. Ensuring patients are aware of the possibility of eConsults not only streamlines healthcare processes but also gives the patient control again.
Moreover, eConsults play a pivotal role in addressing social determinants of health (SDoH) by removing some barriers individuals face in accessing healthcare. They help bridge gaps related to geography, transportation, and financial constraints.