Discharge Instructions

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