CHS Pharmacy News

February 2025

Business Hours

Normal business hours are 9 AM – 5:30 PM M-F, and 9 AM – 3PM Saturday and Closed on Sunday
*Emergency services available 24/7/365

American Heart Month*

“February is American Heart Month, a time when all people can focus on their cardiovascular health. The Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention is shining a light on hypertension (high blood pressure), a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke.”

CMS Appendix PP Changes/Updates

CMS has updated Appendix PP of the State Operations Manual, effective March 24, 2025, to strengthen LTC survey oversight. Key changes include requiring resident, family, or representative consent for initiating or adjusting psychotropic medications and increasing penalties for noncompliance to abuse and neglect levels. The update also revises infection control and guidance on admissions and discharges.

Common Blood Pressure Medication Do’s and Don’ts**

Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day and can be influenced by both physical and emotional stress. For individuals aged 65 and older, a target of 130/80 mmHg or 140/90 mmHg is generally recommended. Consistency in blood pressure medication timing is crucial due to their duration of action. Unless otherwise indicated, extendedrelease (ER, XR, SR, XL) tablets should not be crushed or broken, though some may be split. Always consult a pharmacist before splitting any medication.

New Year’s Day Trivia***

1. What is normal blood pressure?
2. What is a common symptom of high blood pressure?
3. What can untreated high blood pressure lead to?
4. T/F: White Coat Hypertension is a real diagnosis
5. T/F: Potassium can counterbalance the pressure increasing effects of sodium

Drug Monitoring: Amiodarone

Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic that slows nerve impulses in the heart to maintain normal rhythm. Routine monitoring of LFTs, BMP, and thyroid function is recommended. It can increase sun sensitivity, so sun protection is advised. Regular ophthalmic exams are important due to potential eye-related side effects. Amiodarone also has significant drug interactions, so consultation with a pharmacist is recommended. Additionally, routine pulse checks can help assess sinus rhythm. Due to its long half-life (~40 days), holding a dose has minimal impact on heart rate.

Blood Pressure Trivia Answers

1. 120/80
2. headache
3. stroke/heart attack/kidney failure
4. True
5. True

1. * cdc.gov
2. ** acc.org
3. ***proprofs.com