1. The client/caregiver can define labyrinthitis and list risk factors.
    1. It is an ear disorder that involves irritation and swelling of the labyrinth in the inner ear.
    2. When the inner ear does not function properly, the ability to keep your balance is disturbed.
    3. Risk factors are as follows:
      • Recent respiratory or ear infection
      • Stress
      • Fatigue
      • History of allergies
      • Smoking
      • Drinking large amounts of alcohol
      • Certain drugs that are dangerous to the inner ear (aspirin, etc.)
  2. The client/caregiver can list symptoms.
    1. Dizziness
    2. Vertigo (abnormal sensation of move- ment), with nausea and vomiting
    3. Loss of balance
    4. Hearing loss in affected ear
    5. Ringing or other noises in ears (tinnitus)
    6. Involuntary eye movements (nystagmus)
  3. The client/caregiver can list measures to manage this disease.
    1. Take medication as ordered by physician.
    2. Keep still and rest during attacks.
    3. Gradually resume activity.
    4. Avoid sudden position changes.
    5. Avoid chocolate, coffee, and alcohol.
    6. Stop smoking.
    7. Reduce sodium and sugar intake.
    8. Do not try to read during attacks.
    9. Avoid bright lights.
    10. Avoid hazardous activities such as driving, operating heavy machinery, and working at heights until 1 week after symptoms have disappeared.
  4. The client/caregiver can list possible complications.
    1. Injury to self or others during attacks of vertigo
    2. Hearing loss

    References

    Ackley, B. J., & Ladwig, G. B. (2006). Nursing diagnosis handbook: A guide to planning care. Philadelphia: Mosby Inc.Cohen, B. J., & Wood, D. L. (2000). Memmler’s the Human Body in Health and Disease (9th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.Nutrition made incredibly easy. (2003). Springhouse: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins. Portable RN: The all-in-one nursing reference. (2002). Springhouse: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins.Taylor, C., Lillis, D., & LeMone, P. (2005). Fundamentals of nursing. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

    Credits

    Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.www.jbpub.com

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