I have heard the work of physicians often referred to as “Medical Arts”. This is a very accurate description as it is truly an “Art” for physicians to take a limited amount of symptom indicators from a patient and determine probable cause. Following are three case studies in which the patient’s diagnosis will be made using clues provided by the patient’s symptoms.
Case Number One: Mr. MacPherson This is the case study of Mr. MacPherson who came to the emergency department. He has burns on both of his arms, his hands and on his face. These injuries were subsequent to a kitchen grease fire. Mr. MacPherson states he has severe pain and furthermore, his burns showed signs of blistering, swelling and fluid loss.
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4). The Mayo Clinic further indicates that the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of two ligaments that cross in the middle of the knee and serves to connect the femur to the tibia which in turn helps to stabilize the knee joint. ACL injuries occur often during sports when there are sudden stops or changes in direction (Mayo Clinic, 2014). Such a change in direction could have occurred when Margie was in the player pile-up. In addition, many people hear a “pop” in their knee when an ACL injury occurs along with knee swelling and a knee which is too painful to bear weight (Mayo Clinic, …show more content…
3). This advantage would be of special benefit to Susan as she has difficulty sleeping.
Muscular Problems Due to Lack of Exercise Just as there are benefits from exercise, the lack of exercise also has ramifications. Krucik (2005) states that, “Muscle atrophy is when muscles waste away and the main reason for muscle wasting is a lack of physical activity.” (p. 1). Hence, this is a case of the lack of use resulting in the decreased strength of the muscle which would have a great impact in our ability to lead a full life.
Additionally, the lack of exercise has a large impact on our heart muscle. The American Heart Association [AHA] (2014) states, “ The lack of exercise drastically increases the risk of heart problems -- specifically coronary artery disease, in which arteries become clogged with cholesterol and other fatty materials and prevent sufficient blood supply to the heart.” (p. 2). It is not unusual for first-ever heart attacks or strokes to be fatal or disabling, so exercise as a form of prevention is critical (AHA,