Cardiac Diseases

Policy:

Inability to pump an adequate amount of blood to the rest of the body, in order to minimize the patient's complications.

Tools and Equipment Used:

·   Electrocardiogram (ECG) machine

·   Stethoscope

·   Blood pressure monitor

Steps:

·  Place the patient in a quiet, cool room to help them sleep.

·  Connect the patient to a monitor to observe heart rate and perform an electrocardiogram (ECG).

·  Ensure that all necessary items are within the patient's reach.

·  Keep the patient in a comfortable resting position at all times.

·  Reassure the patient about their health.

·  Perform the necessary tests for the patient.

·  Educate the patient on the importance of rest when they return home.

·  Inform the patient about the symptoms of Digitalis toxicity (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, depression, anxiety, dizziness, seizures, hallucinations, memory loss, increased or decreased heart rate, hives).

Nursing staff should perform the following before administering Digitalis (Lanoxin):

·   Take the patient's pulse for a full minute using a stethoscope on the chest.

·   Carefully observe the pulse rate to determine if it is regular or irregular, and document the findings.

·   Stop the dose and inform the doctor if the patient's pulse is too fast or below 60 beats per minute.

·   Observe the patient closely for any signs of Digitalis toxicity.

·   Provide the patient with potassium-rich meals.

·   Avoid giving the patient any foods that contain sodium salts.

·   Weigh the patient daily at the same time, typically before breakfast, using the same scale.

·   Care for the patient’s skin, as swollen skin is more prone to cracking.

·   Administer oxygen to the patient if they experience difficulty breathing.

·   Keep a fluid balance chart for the patient.