Dusti Russell, APRN

Dusti Russell, APRN is a Internal Medicine Physician practicing at her clinic in St Petersburg, FL. As a registered provider with The Florida Board of Medicine, she adheres to Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), and is dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Internal Medicine care. She recognizes that internists are your primary partners in lifelong health, creating comprehensive preventive care plans, coordinating essential screenings, and managing complex adult diseases to ensure your overall wellness and optimal long-term health.

Dr. Dusti APRN focuses on preventive care, recognizing the importance of proactive health management for adults (18 years and older). She is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. As an internal medicine specialist in St Petersburg, FL, she prioritizes creating personalized care plans that address individual needs and promote well-being. To inquire about new patient appointments, please call (727) 322-4227. Dr. Dusti APRN provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Dusti APRN is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Dusti APRN can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Dusti APRN provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Dry Skin: Persistent dry skin can be a sign of underlying health issues, so addressing it promptly helps prevent further complications and promotes overall well-being.
• Bronchitis: Preventive measures, such as vaccination against influenza and avoiding respiratory irritants, can significantly reduce your risk of developing bronchitis.
• Mitral Valve Stenosis: Understanding your risk factors for mitral valve stenosis and adopting preventive measures, such as managing blood pressure, can help protect your heart health.
• Trigonitis: Trigonitis, or inflammation of the trigone (the triangular area of the bladder), can be a source of discomfort and recurring urinary tract infections, highlighting the importance of preventive measures like staying well-hydrated and practicing good hygiene to minimize risk.
• Wilson's Disease: Wilson's disease, if left untreated, can lead to irreversible liver and neurological damage; proactive screening and medical management are vital for preventing these complications.
• Post-Concussion Syndrome: Early intervention after a head injury is vital in minimizing the severity and duration of PCS, emphasizing the importance of preventive care in managing this condition.
• Soft Tissue Infection: Soft tissue infections, often manifesting as redness, swelling, and pain, highlight the need for proactive wound care and hygiene practices to avoid infection and promote healing.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Dusti APRN offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Blood Pressure Management: Regular blood pressure checks help detect high blood pressure early, preventing serious heart and kidney problems down the line.
• Detoxification Evaluation: This evaluation proactively screens for toxins that might be impacting your health, allowing for early intervention and improved outcomes.
• Pacemaker Therapy for Heart Failure: Taking charge of your heart health includes considering a pacemaker if you have heart failure; it helps maintain a steady rhythm, improving your overall well-being.
• Psychosomatic Medicine Services: Take a proactive step towards better health by exploring the relationship between your mental and physical health, potentially identifying and addressing underlying issues early.
• Fine Needle Aspiration: To proactively safeguard your health, a fine needle aspiration involves a small needle to withdraw cells from a suspicious area for laboratory analysis, potentially preventing serious issues.
• Cardiovascular Disease Counseling: Empower yourself with knowledge: Cardiovascular disease counseling provides a comprehensive assessment of your heart health, guiding you towards preventative strategies and healthy habits.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: A chlamydia infection screening is a simple test that can detect this common sexually transmitted infection early, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing long-term health problems.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Internal Medicine Physicians in Florida.

Dr. Dusti APRN is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Adult Patient's life:

• By addressing persistent dry skin concerns with a proactive health plan, a patient found relief from discomfort and improved overall well-being, preventing potential future complications.
• By getting vaccinated and avoiding smoky environments, a patient significantly reduced their risk of bronchitis, enjoying a healthier, more comfortable respiratory system.
• By understanding their risk factors for mitral valve stenosis and following a personalized prevention plan, a patient gained valuable peace of mind knowing they were actively protecting their heart health.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Internal Medicine care with Dr. Dusti APRN:

What is an Internist, and how are they different from a Family Physician?

An internist, like Dr. Dusti APRN, is a primary care doctor who specializes in the health of adults. While family physicians care for patients of all ages, internists have extensive training in diagnosing and treating the varied and often complex medical issues adults face.

How does Dr. Dusti APRN manage patients with multiple chronic conditions?

Dr. Dusti APRN excels at managing patients with multiple chronic conditions. She acts as the quarterback of your healthcare team, coordinating care with specialists, optimizing medication regimens, and focusing on your overall well-being.

What is your approach to preventive care for adults?

Dr. Dusti APRN and her team take a personalized, evidence-based approach to preventive care, partnering with patients to minimize health risks and promote healthy aging. This includes key screenings for high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and cancers (colorectal, breast, prostate), tailored to individual needs and risk factors. We work together to create a plan that supports your well-being.

Can you help manage my type 2 diabetes?

Yes, Dr. Dusti APRN and our team can help manage your type 2 diabetes. We will work with you to monitor your A1c levels, prescribe medications as needed, and provide counseling on diet and exercise. This comprehensive approach helps prevent long-term complications affecting your eyes, kidneys, and nerves.

What is COPD, and how is it managed?

COPD is a common lung disease, often linked to smoking, that makes breathing difficult. Management focuses on preventing flare-ups with inhalers, providing supplemental oxygen as needed, and encouraging pulmonary rehabilitation.

How do you help patients with healthy aging and geriatric concerns?

Dr. Dusti APRN and our team focus on helping patients maintain their independence and function as they age. We perform comprehensive geriatric assessments, including fall risk screenings, cognitive health evaluations, and medication reviews to ensure safety and appropriateness for older adults.

What vaccinations are important for older adults?

Staying up-to-date on vaccinations is a key strategy for preventing serious illnesses like pneumonia and the flu, especially as we age. High-dose flu shots, Shingrix for shingles, and pneumonia vaccines (Prevnar 20 or Vaxneuvance and Pneumovax 23) are important for older adults to discuss with their doctor.

I was told I have 'fatty liver disease.' What does that mean?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an accumulation of fat in the liver, often linked to conditions like obesity and diabetes. Dr. Dusti APRN can help you understand lifestyle changes, such as diet and weight loss, to prevent further liver damage.

3600 Central Ave
St Petersburg FL 33711
Phone: (727) 322-4227

Dusti Russell, APRN is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1164980926

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Internal Medicine Physicians like Dr. Dusti APRN are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your internal medicine physician about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.