Discharge Instrctions

Diagnosis: Lumbar Compression Fracture <hr /> Medications: <ul> <li>Tylenol (Acetaminophen): Take 500 mg every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.</li> <li>Motrin (Ibuprofen): Take 400 mg every 6-8 hours as needed for pain and inflammation. <ul> <li>You may alternate Tylenol and Motrin every 3 hours, starting with Tylenol, for better pain control if necessary.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Lidocaine Patch: Apply one patch to your lower back daily for localized pain relief. Remove after 12 hours and leave off for at least 12 hours before reapplying.</li> <li>Oxycodone 5 mg: Take one tablet by mouth every 6 hours as needed for severe breakthrough pain.</li> </ul> <hr /> Care Instructions: <ul> <li> Activity Modification: <ul> <li>Limit physical activity and avoid lifting heavy objects or bending over to protect your back.</li> <li>Use a brace or supportive device if recommended by your doctor.</li> <li>When resting, lie on your back with a pillow under your knees or lie on your side with a pillow between your legs to reduce strain on your lower back.</li> </ul> </li> <li> Pain Management: <ul> <li>Use Tylenol, Motrin, and the Lidocaine patch as directed to manage moderate pain.</li> <li>Reserve Oxycodone for severe pain that is not controlled by other medications.</li> </ul> </li> <li> Posture and Support: <ul> <li>Maintain good posture when sitting or standing to reduce stress on your spine.</li> <li>Use supportive chairs and avoid prolonged sitting.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <hr /> Follow-Up: <ul> <li>Follow up with your PCP in 1-2 weeks for re-evaluation and to discuss ongoing management.</li> </ul> <hr /> Reasons to Return to the Emergency Department: <ul> <li>Uncontrollable pain despite medications.</li> <li>Inability to walk or significant difficulty with mobility.</li> <li>New leg weakness or numbness.</li> <li>Loss of control of your bladder or bowels.</li> </ul> <hr /> Diagnosis: Ankle Sprain <hr /> Medications: <ul> <li>Tylenol (Acetaminophen): Take 500 mg every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.</li> <li>Motrin (Ibuprofen): Take 400 mg every 6-8 hours as needed for pain and inflammation. <ul> <li>You may alternate Tylenol and Motrin every 3 hours, starting with Tylenol, for better pain control if necessary.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <hr /> Care Instructions: <ul> <li>Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (R.I.C.E.): <ul> <li>Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle. Use crutches if recommended.</li> <li>Ice: Apply ice to the ankle for 15-20 minutes at a time, every 2-3 hours, to reduce swelling.</li> <li>Compression: Use an elastic bandage or ankle brace to support the ankle and reduce swelling.</li> <li>Elevation: Keep your ankle elevated above the level of your heart as much as possible to help decrease swelling.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Avoid strenuous activity or putting excessive pressure on your ankle until it is fully healed. Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises once the pain begins to improve, but avoid high-impact activities until cleared by your doctor.</li> </ul> <hr /> Follow-Up: <ul> <li>Follow up with orthopedics in 1-2 weeks if your pain is not improving or if you have difficulty walking.</li> </ul> <hr /> Reasons to Return to the Emergency Department: <ul> <li>Severe swelling or worsening pain.</li> <li>Inability to move or bear weight on the ankle.</li> <li>Numbness or tingling in your foot or toes.</li> <li>Any other new or concerning symptoms.</li> </ul> <hr />