Advanced Applications of Home-Based Primary Care - Virtual Workshop-Pre and Post Steroid Injection Instructions

Pre and Post Steroid Injection Instructions

Pdf Summary

The document serves as an educational and instructional guide for patients and caregivers about what to expect before and after receiving steroid injections. Steroid injections are a common treatment for joint and musculoskeletal issues, aiming to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. A local anesthetic is typically used alongside the steroid to minimize discomfort.<br /><br />### Key Points for Patients and Caregivers:<br />1. **Response Variability:** Patients' responses to steroid injections can vary. While many experience relief for weeks or months, some might see minimal or no improvement.<br />2. **Medical History:** Inform your provider if you have allergies to steroids or anesthetics, recent illnesses, skin infections near the injection site, diabetes, bleeding disorders, or surgical metalwork at the injection site. Also, disclose if you have fainted previously during medical procedures.<br />3. **Possible Risks:**<br />   - **Skin Changes:** Atrophy or loss of pigmentation may occur, predominantly with superficial injections.<br />   - **Infection:** Rare but serious; seek immediate medical attention for joint warmth, swelling at the injection site, or fever.<br />   - **Steroid Flare:** Increased pain for 1-2 days post-injection; applying ice and using over-the-counter pain relievers may help.<br />   - **Allergic Reactions:** Typically presents within 20 minutes and can cause rash, swelling, or wheezing.<br />   - **Bleeding/Bruising and Tendon Weakness:** Though rare, monitor for pain and report any occurrences.<br />   - **Rise in Blood Sugar:** Diabetic patients should monitor their blood sugar more closely in the week following the injection.<br /><br />### Aftercare:<br />- Avoid strenuous activity, especially if the injection involved a weight-bearing joint.<br />- Immediate consultation with your provider is advised if any side effects occur.<br /><br />### Additional Resources:<br />The Home Centered Care Institute (HCCI) offers several resources including a hotline, webinars, virtual office hours, and downloadable tools for home-based primary care (HBPC) providers and practice staff available through their HCCIntelligence Resource Center.<br /><br />For more detailed information or assistance, contact HCCI via their hotline at 630-283-9222 or email Help@HCCInstitute.org during business hours (9:00 am–5:00 pm CST). The HCCIntelligence Resource Center can be accessed at https://www.hccinstitute.org.

Keywords

steroid injections

pain relief

inflammation

local anesthetic

medical history

possible risks

aftercare

diabetic patients

HCCI resources

home-based primary care