Tina Roper
Registered Nurse
ArkansasAbout
Tina Roper is a top nurse in , Arkansas.
With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Tina Roper is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for
the better.
As a leader and expert in their field, Tina Roper is passionate about enhancing patient
quality of life and embodies the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with
patients. In , Arkansas, Tina Roper is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Education and Training
Goodwin University Associate of Science in Nursing 2016
Chamberlain University 2019 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Walden University Master of Science in Nursing 2024-Present
Charge Nurse
Provider Details
Tina Roper's Expert Contributions
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How can I reduce my risk of stroke?
Having a family history of stroke increases your risk, but you can take steps to lower it by managing key risk factors and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Controlling blood pressure is crucial—aim for below 120/80 mmHg by reducing salt intake, following a heart-healthy diet (DASH or Mediterranean), and exercising at least 150 minutes per week. If you have diabetes or prediabetes, keep A1C below 7% and focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and fiber-rich foods. Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is also important—keep LDL (“bad” cholesterol) below 100 mg/dL and increase HDL (“good” cholesterol) through a diet rich in healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and fish. If cholesterol remains high, statins may be recommended. Stay active and hydrated, and take anticoagulants if you have atrial fibrillation (AFib) to prevent blood clots. Maintaining a healthy weight (BMI <25, waist <35 inches for women, <40 inches for men) and engaging in regular exercise can further reduce risk. Smoking doubles stroke risk, so quitting is essential. Limit alcohol to one drink per day (women) or two (men). Managing stress through meditation, deep breathing, or yoga and getting 7–9 hours of sleep supports overall heart health.
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How long does the dye stay in your body?
The dye used for CT scans is known as contrast dye. This iodine-based contrast agent is filtered through the kidneys and excreted through urine. Those with normal kidney function usually eliminate it within 24-48 hours. For those with kidney disease or reduced kidney function, it could take longer.
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Will I need to remove any jewelry or metal objects before my imaging test?
Yes, you will need to remove all jewelry and metal objects before your CT scan. Metal can interfere with the imaging, causing artifacts that may affect the clarity of the results. This includes earrings, necklaces, rings, piercings, watches, hairpins, and removable dental work. If you have metal implants, inform the technician beforehand, as they may need to adjust the scan settings.
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What are the over-the-counter and prescription medications for GERD?
With GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), treatment focuses on reducing stomach acid and preventing damage to the esophagus. Medications fall into over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription categories. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications • Antacids: Provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid (Tums, Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta). Best for mild, occasional symptoms. • H2 Blockers: Reduce acid production and offer longer relief than antacids (Pepcid [famotidine], Tagamet [cimetidine]). • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): More effective at reducing acid and healing esophageal damage (Prilosec [omeprazole], Nexium [esomeprazole], Prevacid [lansoprazole]). Recommended for frequent symptoms but should not be used long-term without medical supervision. Prescription Medications • Stronger PPIs: Higher doses of omeprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, or dexlansoprazole for persistent GERD or esophageal damage. • Stronger H2 Blockers: Higher-dose famotidine may be prescribed if PPIs are not suitable. • Prokinetics: Help empty the stomach faster to reduce reflux (metoclopramide, domperidone—less commonly used due to side effects). • Foam Barriers: Gaviscon (alginic acid) creates a protective barrier on stomach contents to prevent reflux.
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What are the treatment goals for CKD, including slowing progression, managing symptoms, and preventing complications?
Managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) focuses on slowing progression, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. Slowing disease progression involves controlling blood pressure (keeping it below 130/80 mmHg) with ACE inhibitors or ARBs and managing blood sugar (A1C <7% in diabetics). Dietary changes, including reducing sodium, protein, potassium, and phosphorus, help protect kidney function. Staying hydrated while avoiding NSAIDs and nephrotoxic drugs is also essential. Symptom management includes addressing edema with diuretics and fluid control, treating anemia with iron or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, and managing fatigue through proper nutrition. Itching (pruritus) can be relieved with phosphate binders, and metabolic acidosis may require sodium bicarbonate. To prevent complications, it’s important to control electrolyte imbalances like high potassium (hyperkalemia) with diet and medications and high phosphorus with binders. Bone health is maintained through vitamin D and phosphorus control, while cardiovascular risks are reduced by managing cholesterol, BP, and lifestyle choices. Vaccinations for flu, pneumonia, and hepatitis B help prevent infections, which CKD patients are more prone to.
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Can I drink coffee before a CT scan?
Whether you can drink coffee before a CT scan depends on the type of scan. If your CT scan involves contrast dye, it’s typically advised to avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks for a few hours beforehand, especially if fasting is required, as hydration is important and caffeine can impact kidney function. If the scan does not involve contrast, drinking coffee is usually fine unless your doctor has given specific instructions otherwise. It’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider for clear guidelines.
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Is an MRI scan painful?
No, an MRI scan is not painful. It is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of your body. However, you may experience discomfort from lying still for an extended period, and the machine can be loud, producing knocking or buzzing sounds. If you have claustrophobia, you might feel anxious inside the enclosed scanner, but options like earplugs, music, or even mild sedation can help.
Awards
- Nursing Honors Society
Professional Society Membership
- ANNA
- American Nurses Association
Work Description / Areas of Expertise / Job Duties
- DaVita
- Coordinated care for 61 patients with the interdisciplinary team.
- Assessed and monitored 20 dialysis patients per shift, across two shifts daily.
- Monitored lab results and implemented protocol changes for 61 patients.
- Served as Anemia Manager for the facility.
- Oversaw Infection and Vaccine Surveillance for the facility.
- Collaborated with the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) through conference calls and monthly meetings to address facility and patient health.
- Assisted the Facility Administrator in preparing the Facility Health Report.
Prairie Grove Health and Rehab- Ensured the safety of both the facility and patients.
- Conducted patient assessments as needed.
- Managed nurses and CNAs during shifts.
What do you attribute your success to?
- Driven to show children that hard work pays off.
