A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a test to look at part of your lower bowel and rectum (bum). This pamphlet describes getting ready for the test, how the test is done, and care after the test. The French version of this pamphlet 1505, "Sigmoïdoscopie à sonde souple", is also available. The Arabic version of this pamphlet, 1478, is also available. The Chinese version of this pamphlet, 2438, is also available.
This pamphlet explains what to expect after a gastrectomy (surgery to remove part, or all, of your stomach). Topics include eating and drinking, managing pain, activity, care of your incision (cut), and follow-up care.
This pamphlet is a Simplified Chinese translation of the English pamphlet "Flexible Sigmoidoscopy - VG Site" pamphlet 0188. A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a test to look at part of your lower bowel and rectum (bum). This pamphlet describes getting ready for the test, how the test is done, and care after the test. The French version of this pamphlet 1505, "Sigmoïdoscopie à sonde souple", is also available. The Arabic version of this pamphlet, 1478, is also available.
This surgery removes all or part of a damaged cornea (the clear, front part of your eye) and replaces it with healthy donor tissue. A corneal transplant can be done to improve vision, relieve pain, or treat a severe (very bad) infection. This pamphlet explains the 3 main types of corneal transplants, what to expect after surgery, things to remember, and how to use eye drops. A list of symptoms that need medical attention right away is included. The French version of this pamphlet 1718, "Greffe …
During orbital decompression surgery, the eye surgeon will remove a large part of the bony wall in the orbit (eye socket). This pamphlet explains why you may need this surgery, and what to expect before, during, and after surgery. It also gives information about your follow-up appointment and lists medical symptoms that need attention right away.
A stroke happens when there is a loss of blood flow to the brain. This causes brain cells to die. Your symptoms after a stroke will depend on where your brain was damaged and the size of the damaged area. The blood supply to the brain can be cut off in 2 ways. When a blood clot forms on or in the wall of a blood vessel and stops blood from getting to part of the brain, it is called an ischemic stroke (or brain infarct). When a blood vessel bursts, causing bleeding in and/or around the brain, it…
A spinal anesthetic is a type of anesthesia (freezing medication). It is used for surgeries on the lower part of your body (stomach and below). This pamphlet explains what a spinal anesthetic is, if it will hurt, if you will hear what is happening during your surgery, how a spinal anesthetic is different from a general anesthetic, the benefits and risks, if you can have a spinal anesthetic if you have a back problem, and if you can take pain medications with a spinal anesthetic. Information abo…
A tunneled (Hickman™) catheter is a type of catheter (thin, hollow tube) made of silicone. It is an intravenous (I.V.) catheter that is inserted (put in) in a large vein near your heart. "Tunneled" means that part of the catheter is put under the skin on your chest. Topics include: what a tunneled catheter is and why it is used, infections, supplies, checking for blood, positive pressure, changing your dressing, and caring for your tunneled catheter. A list of what to do if certain problems hap…
Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is a common eye condition that can cause floaters (dots or spots) and flashes of light in your vision. PVD happens when your vitreous humor (a gel at the back of your eye) starts to shrink and becomes liquid. A healthy vitreous humour is attached to a part of your eye called the retina. When the vitreous humour shrinks, it can detach (come apart) from parts of the retina. This pamphlet explains what causes PVD, the symptoms of PVD, and how PVD is diagnosed an…
Sexual health is a person’s physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing in relation to sexuality. The team at Harbourview Lodge supports elders’ decisions to have intimate relationships. We promote a respectful and non-judgmental environment. This pamphlet explains why expressing sexuality is an important part of the aging process. A phone number is included for more information.
IVIG is a collection of antibodies. Antibodies help your body fight infection. IVIG comes from the plasma (part of the blood) of thousands of different donors. IVIG is available under many brand names (like Gamunex®, IGIVnex®, Gammagard Liquid®, and others). This pamphlet explains how IVIG is given, benefits, and possible side effects.
Nova Scotia Health staff are offering a 2-part education session for people who have recently experienced a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion. Each session is 60 mins (1 hour) long. This session is being offered online using Zoom for Healthcare. This pamphlet explains who the session is for and how you can sign up.
This surgery is done to remove tumours or growths in your mouth and nearby areas. These tumours may be cancerous. This surgery may remove: part of your lower jaw bone and tongue, part of the floor (bottom), side, or top of your mouth, the lymph nodes and some of the nerves, blood vessels, and muscles on the side of your neck where the tumours are. Other topics include: what to expect before surgery, how the surgery is done, after surgery, possible complications, what to expect when going home, …
A corneal ulcer is an open sore on your cornea (the clear, front part of your eye). Corneal ulcers are usually caused by an infection. They can also be caused by dry eye or other eye diseases. Corneal ulcers are diagnosed with an eye exam. Your ophthalmologist (eye doctor) may take swabs from your eye. This will help them decide which medication will work best if you have an infection. This pamphlet explains how a corneal ulcer is treated, and gives information on pain and follow-up. A list of …
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) (also called immunotherapy) are an important part of treating some types of cancer. CPIs work by helping your own immune system to work harder or smarter to attack cancer cells. This pamphlet explains what your immune system does and how cancer affects it, what CPIs are and whether they are the same as chemotherapy, and what precautions you have to take. Information about side effects and your orange alert card is included. A list of resources for more inform…
This pamphlet lists things to think about before registering for school. Topics include: how you will know when you are ready, looking into what you need to get into or apply for a program, how you will pay for school, what to do if you are worried about being able to do school work or go to classes because of physical or cognitive (attention, memory) problems, and whether to go part time or full time, and in person or online. Information about what to do once you get into a program and possibl…
Fibre is the part of a plant that your body cannot digest. It is found in whole grain bread and cereal products, nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. By choosing a low fibre eating plan, you will have smaller and fewer bowel movements (poops). This pamphlet includes lists of "Best choices" and "Foods to avoid".
Tobacco Free Nova Scotia (TFNS) is part of the 811 service in Nova Scotia. It is operated on behalf of the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness by Emergency Medical Care Inc. TFNS services are available for anyone impacted by tobacco (clients and their families). This pamphlet explains what TFNS is, what supports are available, and what to expect when TFNS receives your referral. Program hours and a list of "need to know" information are included.
This Passport will help you take an active part in treating your heart failure. You can use it to record daily measurements (like your weight, blood pressure, heart rate, symptoms, and how you are feeling) and any medications you are taking. It can also help you to understand your disease better and learn about the importance of making changes to your lifestyle.
The INSPIRED COPD Outreach Program™ helps people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by providing COPD information and support, a “COPD Action Plan” to help manage flare-ups, suggesting programs and services that may help, and a chance to consider your goals of care and complete a Personal Directive document.