Diagnosis:
- Ankle Sprain
Medications:
- Tylenol (Acetaminophen): Take 500 mg by mouth every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.
- Motrin (Ibuprofen): Take 400 mg by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed for pain.
Alternate Tylenol and Motrin every 3 hours if continuous pain relief is needed.
Care Instructions:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle. Use crutches if needed.
- Ice: Apply ice for 20 minutes every 2-3 hours for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling.
- Compression: Use an elastic bandage or ankle brace for support.
- Elevation: Keep the ankle elevated above heart level whenever possible to reduce swelling.
- Activity: Perform gentle range-of-motion exercises as tolerated to prevent stiffness, but stop if pain increases.
Follow-Up:
- Follow up with orthopedics as needed if the pain or swelling does not improve.
Reasons to Return to the ER:
- Severe pain, swelling, or bruising
- Inability to bear weight or move the ankle
- Numbness, tingling, or coldness in the foot or toes
- Signs of infection (redness, warmth, or drainage)
Diagnosis:
- Bronchitis
- Itching
Medications:
- Prednisone: Take 40 mg by mouth once daily for 4 days to reduce airway inflammation.
- Benadryl (Diphenhydramine): Take 25-50 mg by mouth three times a day (TID) as needed for itching. May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.
Care Instructions:
- Bronchitis:
- Rest and stay hydrated to help loosen mucus.
- Use a humidifier or take steamy showers to soothe your airways.
- Avoid smoke, dust, or other respiratory irritants.
- Itching:
- Take Benadryl as needed.
- Use moisturizing lotion or apply cool compresses to relieve itching.
- Avoid scratching to prevent skin irritation.
Follow-Up:
- Follow up with your PCP to monitor your recovery and address any lingering symptoms.
Reasons to Return to the ER:
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness
- Persistent fever or worsening cough
- Severe itching or signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing)
- Confusion, dizziness, or any new or concerning symptoms