We at Southern Paramedic hope you enjoy our articles and would like some input. If you have a topic that you would like to know more about give us a call (870-734-3366) and we will try to address the subject. We want to keep you informed about safety and health. Also, when we carry children to the hospital we like to give them a stuffed animal or small toy to make them more comfortable with us. So if you have any stuffed animals or small toys in good condition, that your children have out grown, bring them by. We wash and disinfect them and place them on our ambulances to give to our young patients. It can be very scary for a young child who is sick or injured to be around strangers, this seems to make them feel more at ease with us. Let’s recycle. Make sure that there are no small parts that can be torn off and swallowed.
Every so often we will do a topic on some common drugs that you or a family member may be taking. We will address both OTC and prescription drugs from time to time. Again, if there is a medication that you would like to learn more about give us a call, tell us about your concerns. Our doors are always open, if you would like your blood pressure taken or just stop by to say HI and see how we operate, we will be glad to show you around during business hours. In the near future we hope to do some interesting classes that will be open for you to attend. We are getting some very well educated EMT’s here with lots of experience that enjoy community involvement. After all, we are your emergency care team.
Anticoagulants, sometimes called “blood thinners”, are prescribed to treat certain blood vessel, heart, and lung conditions. They decrease the clotting ability of the blood and therefore help to prevent harmful clots from forming in the blood vessels. They do not actually thin the blood nor do they dissolve clots which already have formed but may prevent the clots from becoming larger and causing more serious problems.
In order for an anticoagulant to help you without causing serious bleeding, it must be used properly and all the precautions concerning its use must be followed exactly. It is very important to understand and follow your doctors orders about how to take this medication. Give your physician a very detailed medical history, include allergies, diet, if you are pregnant or breast feeding, other medical problems, OTC or prescription drugs you are taking, and any conditions or procedures you have had recently.
Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it, more often, or longer than ordered. Regular check-ups are needed to monitor clotting and determine the correct dose. Some medications should not be taken while on anticoagulants such as aspirin and other drugs that also thin the blood. Carry identification stating you are using this medicine. Avoid activities which may cause injuries. Report to your doctor if you fall, strike your head, or have the possibility of other internal injuries that may cause bleeding. Alcohol and some foods should be avoided while taking this medication.
After you stop taking this drug your body will need time to recover it clotting abilities. As with any drug there are side effects, check with your doctor if you have any unusual symptoms. Be safe, know your medications and don’t be afraid to ask questions, IT’S YOUR BODY!
See ya pam