Question 1: Offer to show Charles how the app works during the appointment. If it is accessible for Charles, provide the information in an alternative format.
By spending time showing Charles how to use the app, he may be able to learn how to use it therefore will be able to add his data to the app and manage his condition in a more organised and structured way, which can also be shared with his doctor. However, everyone is different and may not understand the way information is being communicated too them therefore may benefit from information to be provided in an alternative format which may be easier for them to understand.
Question 2: Advise Charles talks to the medical team and the senior nurses before undertaking this so that it is progressed and done at the right time.
Although exercise is good for the heart and as nurses we should promote a healthy lifestyle, we also need to consider our patients’ current physical health conditions and the need of rest ect. If I was not 100% certain of my answer, I would ensure I seek advice from the medical team and senior nurse/ advice Charles to speak to the medical team and senior nurse.
Question 3: Direct Charles to the following advice, Face – does your face look different on one side? Arms – can you raise your arms? Speech – is your speech slurred or different? Time to act – call 999, get help.
Having AF can put you at higher risk of having a stoke, therefore you would not tell Charles he was not at risk of a stroke. Advising Charles to have someone with his at all times is unsustainable and unnecessary. As professionals we should be open and honest with Charles and he should be educated about the signs of a stoke so he knows when and who to contact for help if he recognises any of the signs.
