Final answer:
The most appropriate intervention for a patient experiencing stomach bloating and pain after starting positive airway pressure therapy is to adjust the machine settings and consult with the provider. This can include fitting adjustments and educating the patient on avoiding air swallowing. Symptoms of weight loss, sweating, tachycardia, and insomnia may suggest a systemic condition like hyperthyroidism.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient who reports new onset of stomach bloating and pain after starting positive airway pressure therapy may be experiencing aerophagia, which is the ingestion of air that can occur with the use of such devices. The most appropriate intervention by an allied health professional would be to adjust the machine settings and consult with the prescribing provider for potential modifications. This might include reducing the pressure setting, changing the type of mask, or altering the treatment regiment. Additionally, ensuring proper fitting of the mask and providing instructions on how to avoid swallowing air could also be valuable strategies.
Considering Patient B's symptoms of weight loss, profuse sweating, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping, these could be indicative of a separate condition such as hyperthyroidism or another systemic issue requiring further medical evaluation. The allied health professional should take these symptoms into account when discussing the patient's concerns with the prescribing provider.