NURS 6521 Week 10 Essay Discussion
Hormone Replacement Therapy -Menopause
Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstrual cycles following the loss of ovarian funicular activity. Although it can occur at any age or gender, said onset usually occurs when a in the age of early 50s (Abernethy, 2015). Some of the multiple symptoms that menopausal patients will report are symptoms such as night sweats, difficulties with sexual pleasure, and difficulty sleeping. A FDA- approved symptom reliever of menopause is Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that includes estrogen or estrogen with progestin.NURS 6521 Week 10 Essay Discussion
Patients to chose to treat menopausal symptoms with HRT reports an increase in quality of life by relieving other symptoms such as mood swings, insomnia, vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction, and most important, hot flashes. As benefits are reported, so are negative effects such as bone density atrophy and increase risk for blood clots, increased risk for cardiovascular disease, and breast cancer. Due to the detrimental negative risk some chose not to use this therapy and seek other treatments such as supplements and organic/natural products..
The decision to prescribe HRT should be a joint one between the provider and the patient and the patient should be informed of the risks. Patients should also start with the lowest dose possible because the benefits of hormone therapy are dose related (Arcangelo & Peterson, 2013). As the Advanced Nurse Practitioner, I would be sure to complete, and document a meticulous assessment of the patient’s medical history (past, present, and family). I would be sure to advocate for my patients by providing detailed education regarding natural remedies, vitamins, and supplements that aids in management of symptoms and transitions associated with menopause. Education on Monitoring caffeine intake, dietary changes, and routine assessments of changes in the body should also be included. As every patient is unique, Hormone therapy continues to be a valid treatment option for patients who are significantly troubled by menopausal symptoms; however, the risks and benefits of such treatment vary according to age and medical history (Abernethy, 2015). NURS 6521 Week 10 Essay Discussion