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Disorders of the Cardiovascular System Fall 14

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Assessment

Current or chief complaint


Past medical history
Diagnostic Studies
Vital signs
Cardiovascular inspection/auscultation

Murmurs, Extra heart sounds

Palpation of extremities

Skin turgor, edema, pulses

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Chest Pain Assessment

PQRST Pneumonic:

= Precipitators
What were you doing when it started
Does it go anywhere

Q = Quality

What does it feel like?


Rate on scale of 0-10

R = Region/Radiation

Point to where else it hurts?

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Chest Pain Assessment

= Signs/Symptoms
Have you had any other signs or symptoms?

= Time/Treatment
When did it start?
Does it come and go?
Is it worse when you take a deep breath?
How long does it last?
What makes it worse or better?

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CP Assessment
Chief

complaints

If

patient has prior history of chest


pain or cardiac disease, assume it is
cardiac pain until proven otherwise
Assess for shortness of breath (SOB),
dyspnea on exertion, and dyspnea
when lying or sitting
Assess for history of CHF
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Assessment
Syncope
Period

of unconsciousness
Due to decreased perfusion to head
Determine Cardiac vs. Neurologic
Palpitations
Awareness

of fluttering or racing heart


Determine if precipitated by
stress/anxiety
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Assessment
Edema

Determine degree and how


long present
Cardiac related ascends from
feet and ankles upward toward
heart
May be dependent edema
seen in sacrum, posterior legs,
abdomen when lying in bed
JVD
Recent weight gain
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Assessment
Heart

Sounds

S1-S2

are normal, lub-dub


S3 and S4 not normal
Murmurs
Systolic

or Diastolic
Whooshing sound

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Assessment
Cardiac Output
Blood pressure
Peripheral pulse quality
Heart rate
Urine output

Lung Sounds:
Coarse breath sounds
Pulmonary edema

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Assessment
General Appearance
Color of skin, lips, nail beds
Mucous membranes
Obvious shortness of breath
Level of consciousness
Peripheral Pulses
Rate, rhythm, strength (1+ to 4+)
Capillary Refill (<3 seconds normal)

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Normal Lab Values


Serum

Chemistries:

Sodium
135-145 mEq/l
Potassium 3.5-5.0 mEq/l
Chloride
96-106 mEq/l
Calcium
8.5-10.5 mEq/l
Phosphorus 3.0-4.5 mEg/l
Magnesium 1.5-2.5 mEq/l or 1.8-2.4
mg/dl

Glucose
70-110 mg/dl

BUN
5-20 mg/dl

Creatinine 0.7-1.5 mg/dl

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Lab Studies
Enzymes:
Total

CK (Creatine Kinase)

55-170

u/l for males


30-135 u/l for females

CKMB 0% of total
LDH 90-200 IU/L

Muscle

CK

Proteins:

Troponin

I <1.5 ng/ml

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Lab Studies
Lipid

Profile:

Cholesterol

150-200 mg/dl
Triglycerides 40-150 mg/dl
Lipoprotein

Cholesterol fractionation

HDL

29-77 mg/
LDL 62-130 mg/dl
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Lab Studies
Hematology:

Hematocrit:

Hemoglobin:

WBC:
Sed. Rate:

40%-52% for males


35%-47% for females
13-18 g/dl for males
12-16 g/dl for females
3,500-11,000 mm
<15 mm/hr or males
<20 mm/hr for females

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Lab Studies
Clotting Profile:

Prothrombin time (PT/INR) 12-15 sec/<2.0


Therapeutic levels for
A-fib 1.5-2.5
DVT/PE 2.0-3.0
Prosthetic valves 2.5-3.5
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT)
25-38 sec.
Therapeutic is 1.5-2.5 times normal
Platelets 150,000-400,000/mm
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Cardiac Angiography

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PTCA

Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary


Angioplasty (PTCA)

The physician inserts a balloon-tipped


catheter through the femoral artery up to the
heart. Once the balloon-tipped catheter is at
the site of the blockage, the balloon at the tip
of the catheter is inflated, pushing the plaque
in the artery back against the wall of the
artery.

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Cardiac Stent

First performed in the mid-1980s and first


approved by the FDA in the mid 1990s

A stent (a small, expandable wire mesh tube) is


inserted into a diseased artery to hold it open

Drug eluding stents are coated with a drug that


dramatically reduces any reblockage of the stent
by inhibiting scar tissue formation within the stent

Currently, stenting is performed most often in


conjunction with other catheter-based procedures,
such as PTCA and atherectomy

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Coronary Atherectomy

Atherectomy is performed with a catheter that


has a blade-like device on the end

The coronary atherectomy actually cuts away


or "debulks" some of that plaque

A physician is more likely to choose


atherectomy over angioplasty/stenting when
the plaque is very hard (due to calcification)
or presents other challenges.

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Intervention

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Coronary Re-Stenosis

To prevent restenosis, one of the following


antiplatelet medications may be administered prior
to or during intervention and continue for up to 12
hours after:

Integrelin
Reopro
Aggrastat
Angiomax

Post-stent or PTCA, patients usually take Plavix


75mg po qd for several months or for life to assist
with antiplatelet activity and decrease risk of restenosis
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Post-Intervention Care

ECG: for signs of abrupt re-occlusion


Pedal Pulses
Bleeding at groin site/Hematoma formation
Coronary dissection
Postural or vasovagal syncope (during sheath
removal)
Pseudoaneurysm formation (auscultate site
for a bruit)
Retroperitoneal bleed

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Femoral Sheath Removal


Orders for type of removal:
Femostop
Manual
Vascular closure devices (i.e.

Perclose,
Vasoseal, Angioseal, Starclose)

On

hand items to include fluids and


atropine
4-8 hours bedrest post-sheath removal
Pedal pulse checks

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Femoral Sheath Removal

Consider pre-med with pain medicine prior to


sheath removal (Morphine systemically or
Lidocaine locally at the site)

PAR:
P = Pressure
A = Application of Pressure
R = Release (slow) of Pressure

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Module II: Care of the Post-op


CABG Patient
Care of the Post-op CABG and Valve Replacement
Patient

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CABG Care

Concerns in the early postoperative period:


Hemodynamics
Bleeding
Heart rhythm
Urine Output
Labs
Respiratory status
Incisions
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CABG Care

Record/Monitor Hourly:
Arterial BP, HR, RR (q 15 min.
till patient is extubated)
PAP, CVP, EDV, REF
CO/CI
SVR
SaO2, SVO2
I/O: Urine, CT, JP

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Hemodynamic Monitoring
Report CI <2, SBP <90
Treat BP >150 mmHg
Maintain volume status:

CVP/PCWP ~ 10-12
EDV ~ 160
UO > 30ml/hr
JP/CT <100-200 ml/hr

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Hemodynamic Monitoring

Report EKG Changes:

PVCs
PACs
AFib
Bradycardia

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Post-op Monitoring
Maintain SaO2 >90-92%
Monitor CO2
Maintain K+ >4.0 and <5.0
Maintain Mag++ >2
Monitor H/H
VIA ABGs

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Post-op Monitoring

Monitor incisions:

Radial artery grafts


Sternotomy
Vein grafts
Chest Tubes

Dressing Changes
Pain Control

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Post-Op Pulmonary Management

Accurate & frequent physical assessment


Arterial blood gas analysis
Continuous pulse oximetry
Pulmonary care (including suctioning while pt.
is intubated, coughing & incentive spirometry
after extubation)
Early mobilization
Control of pain and shivering

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Post-Op Pulmonary Management

Chest X-ray to determine placement of ETT,


thermodilution catheter, and nasogastric tube,
as well as information about the width of the
mediastinum, amount of atelectasis, presence
of hemothorax or pneumothorax, and size of
the heart.
Assess patient for readiness for extubation

Considered if pt. is arousable, able to follow


commands, hemodynamically stable, and
initiating spontaneous ventilations without
excessive respiratory effort

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Extubation Weaning Parameters

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

Cuff BP is taken to provide correlation of BP


from arterial line
Monitor the interrelationship between:

Heart rhythm and rate


Preload
Afterload
Contractility
Myocardial compliance

Monitor volume within the system: RAP, PAWP

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics


If

BP is too low:

There

is either too little volume


(preload)
OR the SVR is too low (patients blood
vessels are dilated)
Volume is generally replaced with a
colloid such as Albumin or Hetastarch,
unless hematocrit is low, then volume
may be replaced with PRBC

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

If BP and CO are low, but the PCWP is high:

Patient may be experiencing decreased


contractility and inotropic support may be
instituted with an agent such as Dopamine or
Dobutamine

If the BP is low & the CO is adequate or


elevated:

The SVR may be low & the patient may need a


constrictive agent, such as Phenylephrine

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

Low BP can also be temporarily increased by


turning off PEEP (to decrease intrathoracic pressure
and augment preload) nad by position changes.
The patient should be put in the supine position
with legs elevated to allow the BP to increase until
the cause of the low BP can be determined and
corrective measures are taken.
Trendelenberg position (not universally utilized) can
also offer symptomatic relief, by shifting volume
from the legs to the chest & increasing preload.

Provide only temporary improvement in clinical picture

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

If BP becomes too high, esp. in the early post


op period, surgical anastomoses may be
disrupted

Can cause significant intrathoracic bleeding,


hemodynamic instability, poor tisse perfusion, and
necessitate return to the operating room
RN needs to quickly intervene for high BP per
institution protocol or MD orders
Nitroprusside (vasodilator) is often administered to
lower BP to the ordered parameter

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

Nitroglycerine (a nitrate) is given to cause


vasodilation and lower BP
These medications need to be started slowly, so
patient response can be evaluated.
Patients must be monitored closely as the BP may
drop as the patients body temperature increases.

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

Rewarm patient
after surgery if
hypothermia persists

Use of warm blankets


Warm, humidified
oxygen
Convective air
mattresses
Other individual
institutional
approaches

Negative effects of
hypothermia:

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Depression of the
myocardium
Ventricular
dysrhythmias
Vasoconstriction
Depression of clotting
factors (increasing the
risk of bleeding post
operatively)

Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

Carefully monitor the PAPs & the CO, as well


as BP when interventions are instituted to
assess the effect.
Need to maintain effective CO after CABG to
provide adequate tissue perfusion
Need to regularly perform neurovascular
assessments of the lower extremities to
provide information about the effectiveness of
the CO

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

Continuously monitor the cardiac rate and


rhythm

Ventricular dysrhythmias are common in the early


post op period and SVT are more likely 24 hours to
5 days post operatively.
Incidence of A Fib is from 10 to 65% depending on
patients history

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

Factors in post op dysrhythmias:

Hypothermia
Inhaled anesthetics
Electrolyte disturbances (hypo-/hypercalcemia,
hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia)
Metabolic disturbances (Acidosis)
Manual manipulation of the heart
Myocardial ischemia
Increase in catecholamine levels due to pain,
anxiety, inadequate sedation

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Post-Op Management of Hemodynamics

Management of dysrhythmias:

Treat patient, not the monitor


Consider effectiveness of BP & CO when
evaluating dysrhythmias
Cardiac surgeons place epicardial wires on the
atrium and/or ventricles during surgery
Temporary pacing can be instituted to override
slow, rhythmic rhythm to maintain BP and CI
Atropine may be given to increase the HR in the
absence of epicardial pacing wires
Tachydysrhythmias can be controlled
pharmacologically depending on physicians orders
and hospital protocols
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Post-Op Management of Bleeding

Monitor patient for signs of bleeding from the


chest tubes and surgical sites, as well as clinical
signs of hypovolemia related to blood loss
HH should be monitored at regular intervals
during post op period according to hospital
protocol
Nurse must be cognizant of the potential for
cardiac tamponade, blood could accumulate
in the pericardium

Signs: Lack of CT drainage, decreased BP,


narrowed pulse pressure, and muffled heart
sounds
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Post-Op Management of Bleeding

If bleeding is an issue:

Protamine sulfate may be given to reverse the


effects of heparin
Or antifibrinolytic agents (DDAVP) may be ordered
Blood products such as FFP and platelets may also
be ordered

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Post-Op Neurologic Management

Pupils should be assessed initially

Normal size & reactivity may not return until agents


utilized intraoperatively have been metabolized.
Over the 1st few hours, the results of neuro
assessments should improve gradually
By the time patient is ready for extubation, pt.
should follow commands & have equal movement
and strength of the extremities
Neuro status cannot be completely assessed until
patient is fully awake & extubated

Continue neurologic assessments on a regular


basis
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Post-Op Renal Management

Monitor urinary output, at least, hourly


Assess urine for color & characteristics, as
well as amount
Potassium level should be monitored every 46 hours for the 1st 24 hours, potassium is lost
with diuresis
IV potassium replacement should be
administered to keep potassium level within
normal limits
Other lab values should be monitored daily:
BUN and Creatinine
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Post-Op GI Management

Monitor the patient for bowel sounds,


abdominal distention, and nausea and
vomiting
Intubated patient will have nasogastric tube to
low intermittent suction
Placement & patency should be assessed, as
well as amout, color, and characteristics of the
drainage.
Antiemetic agents should be administered for
nausea

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Post-Op Pain Management

Factors contributing to pain

Median sternotomy incision, leg incisions


Manipulattion of chest cavity
Use of retractors during surgery
Electrocautery
Positioning in the operating room table
Length of time of the surgery

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Post-Op Pain Management

Poorly controlled pain can stimulate the


sympathetic nervous system & lead to CV
consequences
The HR and BP can increase and the blood
vessels can constrict

Causes increase in cardiac workload and


myocardial oxygen demand

Nurses must individualize pain assessment


and control for each patient as responses vary
among individuals

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Post-Op Pain Management

Opioid analgesics, positioning, mobilization,


distraction, and relaxation techniques are
among some methods of pain control.
Ketoralac is an nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
agent, can be administered IV in the early post
op period

Need to monitor renal status of patients taking


Ketoralac
Discontinued if creatinine level is elevated

Teach client to splint incision when coughing &


moving improves pain control

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Treatment Hemodynamic Changes

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Beta Blockers
Decreases

myocardial workload
and myocardial oxygen demand
by decreasing HR and contractility

Rhotral, Sectral
Tenormin
Zebeta, Monocor
Brevibloc
Lopressor (also beta-2 at high doses)

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Ace Inhibitors

Work by suppressing the renin-angiotensinaldosterone system, which results in fluid loss


and BP
May get CO
When ACE inhibitors are started, it may take
weeks to achieve optimal results
ACE inhibitors work well with diuretics to BP
and may work well for some heart failure
patients

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Renin-AngiotensinAldosterone System

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So what happens
if you suppress the action
of the angiotensin- converting
enzyme?

You prevent the production


of angiotensin II which then
blocks the production of
Aldosterone and therefore
decreases the preload and
the afterload, important in
patients with CHF.

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Ace Inhibitors
Examples:
Lotensin
Capoten
Vasotec
Monopril
Prinivil
Zestril
Accupril
Altace

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Calcium Channel Blockers


Calcium

Channel Blockers inhibit the


influx of Ca++ through the cell
membrane resulting in depression of
automaticity and muscle contraction

Indications:

Hypertension
Angina from vasospasm
Dysrhythmias

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Calcium Channel Blockers


Examples:
Calan
Procardia
Cardene
Plendil
Cardizem
Norvasc
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Angiotensin Receptor Blocker (ARB)


Act

by blocking the angiotensin


receptor, which controls the
physiologic effects of angiotensin on
blood pressure

Indications:
Hypertension
Heart

Failure
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So what happens if you


suppress angiotensin II?

Aldosterone production
is reduced and
therefore preload and
afterload are reduced.

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ARBs
Examples

of ARBs:

Atacand
Avapro
Benicar
Cozaar
Diovan
Micardis
Teveten

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Anticoagulants

Heparin or Low Molecular Weight Heparin


(LMWH)
Coumadin

For patients with high risk for systemic emboli


Large anterior MI
Atrial fibrillation
LV thrombus
Valve replacement

Use with fibrinolytics


PTCA or CABG surgery

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Thrombolytics

Indications:

ST segment elevation >1 mm in two related leads


Chest Pain with new onset, LBBB
Clinical suspicion of acute MI even if chest pain is
absent
AMI Core Measures recommends thrombolytics be
given within 30 min of arrival to hospital.

t-PA,

Activase, Retivase

Plasminogen activator causes transient, systemic


fibrinogen depletion
Weight based dosing (see Policy and standing
orders)- administered in the ER
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Contraindications for Thrombolytics

Hemorrhagic stroke

Intracranial neoplasm

Active internal bleeding

Pregnancy

Suspected aortic dissection

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Complications from Thrombolytics


Bleeding:
Cerebral

hemorrhage
GI bleed
Epitaxis
Hematuria
Puncture sites
Dysrhythmias
Hypotension
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Other Interventions
Electrophysiology

Study):

Studies (EP

A procedure in which a thin tube catheter


is inserted into a vein or artery (e.g., in the
groin) and guided to the heart, where it
can perform specific, essential
measurements of the hearts electrical
activity and pathways
These measurements are particularly
helpful in the diagnosis of the origin of
tachycardias, or bradycardias

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Other Interventions
Ablation

is a procedure in which a physician


destroys very small, carefully selected parts of
the heart that are causing tachycardia

Allows

the heart to beat more slowly and


normally

Usually

used for A-Fib, A-flutter, WPW, AT, SVT,


junctional tachycardia, and ventricular
tachycardia

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Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Stenosis

The mitral valve is located between the left


atrium and left ventricle and is also referred to
as the atrioventricular valve
Mitral valve stenosis is the obstruction of blood
flow from the left atrium into the left ventricle

most often caused by Rheumatic Endocarditis

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Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Stenosis

Pathophysiology:

Since the left atrium has difficulty moving blood into the
left ventricle, the blood backs up into the pulmonary veins,
overloading the pulmonary circulation.

The right ventricle must contract against a very high


pulmonary arterial pressure causing strain and eventual
failure of the right ventricle.

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Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Stenosis

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Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Stenosis

Clinical
manifestations

Diagnostics

dyspnea
fatigue
hemoptysis
cough
repeated respiratory
infections

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weak, often irregular


pulse
diastolic murmur
EKG
cardiac catheterization

Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Stenosis

Medical Management

antibiotic prophylaxis
treat Congestive Heart Failure
anticoagulants
treat anemia
surgical intervention
valvuloplasty
mitral valve replacement

Nursing Care

same as post-op needs as other patients experiencing


cardiac surgery

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Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Prolapse

Definition

mitral valve prolapse is deformity that usually has no signs


and symptoms

although rare, it can progress and lead to sudden death

occurs more frequently in women

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Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Prolapse

Pathophysiology:

a portion of the mitral valve leaflet balloons back into


the atrium during systole

occasionally the valve does not stay closed during


systole, blood then backs into the left atrium from the
left ventricle

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Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Prolapse

Clinical
Manifestations

Diagnostics

many are asymptomatic


others will have:
dyspnea, fatigue, lightheadedness,
palpitations, dizziness,
syncope, chest pain and
anxiety

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Mitral click
murmur of mitral valve
regurgitation
Rarely patient will have
signs and symptoms of
heart failure

Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Prolapse

Medical Management

eliminate caffeine, avoid alcohol, smoking, oxygen,


antiarrhythmic medications, diuretics, AngiotensinConverting Enzyme Inhibitors, Angiotensin II Receptor
Blockers, Hydralazine and Isosorbide Dinitrate, Beta
Blockers and Calcium Channel Blockers

Surgical intervention: mitral valve repair or


replacement

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Cardiovascular System: Mitral Valve Prolapse

Nursing Management

Education

diagnosis, hereditary condition


prophylactic antibiotics
dietary and lifestyle changes

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Cardiovascular System: Rheumatic Endocarditis

Rheumatic Endocarditis is a potential sequel


seen in patients who have had Rheumatic Fever.
Rheumatic Fever occurs most often in children
who have had a case of group A beta hemolytic
streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat). With
prompt treatment with antibiotics the numbers
of people afflicted with Rheumatic Fever has
declined in the United States.

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Cardiovascular System: Rheumatic Endocarditis

Pathophysiology

The damage to the heart is not directly related to the


streptococci but to the leukocytes that accumulate in
the tissue which leads to the formation of scar tissue.
Initially tiny translucent growths are seen on the valve
flaps. Over time the valve leaflets thicken, preventing
them from closing completely

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Cardiovascular System: Rheumatic Endocarditis

Pathophysiology cont.

The myocardium can compensate for quite a while, but


eventually the condition will lead to heart failure

It is the mitral valve that is most often affected

The severity of symptoms is directly related to the location


and size of the lesion

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Cardiovascular System: Rheumatic Endocarditis

Assessment

murmur, shortness of breath, crackles and wheezes to lung


fields

there may also be emboli phenomena to the lung, kidney,


heart, spleen or brain

* the key is prevention

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Cardiovascular System: Rheumatic Endocarditis

Medical Management

eradicate the cause


antibiotic therapy
risk for embolitic event

Nursing Management

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teaching: medications,
symptom monitoring &
management
lifestyle changes:
diet
activity
CPR
birth control (female)

Cardiovascular System: Infective Endocarditis

Definition

Infection of the valves and endothelial surface of the


heart, especially seen in people with valve disorders

more common in the elderly


high incidence among IV drug users
others at risk
invasive procedures can cause a bacteremia which leads to
Infective Endocarditis

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Cardiovascular System: Infective Endocarditis

Pathophysiology

caused by direct invasion of the endocardium by a


microbe, fungi or rickettsiae

leads to deformity of the valve leaflets, can also affect


other structures, such as: chordae tendineae

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Cardiovascular System: Infective Endocarditis

Assessment
malaise
anorexia
weight loss
cough
fever
joint pain
Oslers nodes
Roths spots
petechiae
murmurs
emboli

Diagnostics

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microorganism is
identified in 2 separate
blood cultures
echocardiogram reveals
a moving mass on the
heart valves or
supporting structures

Cardiovascular System: Infective Endocarditis

Medical Management

prevention

complications

antibiotic therapy
heart failure, cerebral vascular, other organ complications
related to septic or non septic emboli

treatment

Long-term antibiotics
surgical management: to replace severely damaged valves

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Cardiovascular System: Infective Endocarditis

Nursing Management

monitor the patients temperature


assess for new murmurs
assess for signs and symptoms of organ damage
education:

antibiotics for treatment & prophylactic


emotional
post-op care if indicated

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Myocarditis
Etiology:

Inflammation of myocardium
as a response to invading organisms,
chemicals or drugs

Causes:

Viral, bacterial, fungal,


protozoal, autoimmune, toxins

Effects:

Decreased contractility,
decreased cardiac output, and
decreased LV function leading to failure
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Cardiovascular System: Pericarditis

Definition:

an inflammation of the pericardium, the membranous


sac enveloping the heart
may be a primary illness, or develop during the course
of another medical or surgical disorder
it may be classified by what accumulates in the sac:
blood, purulent drainage, clotting proteins

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Pericarditis
Inflammation

of the pericardium

Chronic vs. Acute


Pericardial Effusion
Cardiac Tamponade

Constrictive
Chronic scarring
Stiff pericardium

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Cardiovascular System: Pericarditis

Pathophysiology

there are many underlying causes associated with


pericarditis
leads to a buildup of fluid in the pericardium which can
cause cardiac tamponade
can lead to thickening & decreased elasticity preventing
the heart to fill properly
can become calcified further restricting ventricular
expansion during diastole
leads to decreased cardiac output, heart failure and
hepatic failure
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Cardiovascular System:

Pericarditis

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Pericarditis
Patient presents with chest pressure and
shortness of breath that is worse when lying
down
Symptoms are somewhat relieved when
sitting upright and forward
Usually follows a bacterial or viral infection or
acute MI ~ 2 weeks later
12 Lead EKG follows no consistent ischemia
pattern

Commonly have ST elevation in multiple leads

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Cardiovascular System: Pericarditis

Assessment

pericardial rub
chest pain
fever

Diagnostics

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echocardiogram
CXR
12 lead ECG: ST
changes
WBC
ESR

Cardiovascular System: Pericarditis

Medical Management

determine cause
administer therapy:

NSAIDs, corticosteroids, Colchicine

Pericardiocentesis
Pericardectomy

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Pericarditis

Treatment:
NSAIDs
Steroids
Pericardial Drain

Potential Complications
Development of pericardial effusion
Hemodynamic instability

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular System: Pericarditis

Nursing Management

monitor for cardiac tamponade


pain management
activity restriction
emotional support
monitor for heart failure

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Endocarditis

Acute or chronic infection of the


endocardium, including valves, chordae
tendinae, and septum.

Usually bacterial

Forms vegetations that destroy valve tissue,


mainly tricuspid and pulmonic

Organisms lead to bacteremia/sepsis

Can lead to cardiac failure


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Endocarditis
Treatment:
Generally

long term IV antibiotics


Possible need to remove infected
valve and replace with new valve
after infection under control
Potential

complications:

Migration

of vegetation to brain or
other parts of body
Overwhelming sepsis
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Cardiomyopathy

Chronic or subacute disorder of


the heart muscle
Dilated
Hypertrophic
Restrictive

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Dilated

Restrictive
Hypertrophic
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Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Dilated Ventricle without Hypertrophy
Etiology: viral, idiopathic, alcoholism
Clinical Findings:

Right and left heart failure


Ventricular arrhythmias
Murmur

End-stage dilated Cardiomyopathy is the #1


indication for heart transplant.

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Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Chamber Enlargement
Impaired Systolic and
Diastolic Dysfunction
Heart Failure
Refractory to
Treatment

Death

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Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Treatment:
Fluid

Restriction
ACE Inhibitors
Beta-blockers
Diuretics
Antidysrhythmic
s
ICD
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Hypertropic Cardiomyopathy
Significant increase in myocardial
mass with decreased chamber size
Diastolic dysfunction results
May be related to genetics
Clinical findings:

Malignant ventricular dysrhythmias


Systemic embolization and stroke
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Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
Least common form
Decreased chamber size, rigid
ventricle, and right and left side
failure, decreased cardiac output
Etiology:

Radiation
Sarcoidosis
Idiopathic

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiomyopathy

HCA Critical Care College

Shock
An

acute, widespread process of


impaired tissue perfusion resulting in
cellular, metabolic and hemodynamic
derangements

Hypovolemic: Occurs from inadequate fluid


volume in intravascular space
Cardiogenic: Result of failure of heart to pump
blood forward effectively
Septic: Overwhelming infection of usually
bacterial origin
HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular System: Cardiogenic Shock

Definition:

Occurs when the heart cant pump enough blood to


supply the amount of oxygen needed by the tissues

Occurs when: >40% of the myocardium is necrotic, due


to a ruptured ventricle, valve dysfunction, trauma to
the myocardium, end stage of heart failure, pulmonary
emboli, cardiac tamponade, cardiomyopathy and
dysrhythmias

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular System: Cardiogenic Shock

Pathophysiology

cardiogenic shock is circular in nature. The degree of


shock is related to the amount of left ventricular
dysfunction

damage to the myocardium results in a decreased CO2


which reduces arterial B/P and tissue perfusion to vital
organs

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular System: Cardiogenic Shock

Pathophysiology cont..

As the flow to the coronary arteries is decreased, there


is less O2 to the myocardium increasing ischemia and
reducing the hearts ability to pump

inadequate emptying of ventricles causes pulmonary


edema, making the hypoxia and tissue perfusion even
worse

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular System: Cardiogenic Shock

Assessment:

tissue hypo-perfusion
low B/P
rapid, weak pulse
cold, clammy skin
respiratory crackles
decreased urinary
output
hypoactive bowel
sounds
respiratory alkalosis

Diagnostics

pulmonary artery
catheter to measure left
ventricular pressure
and cardiac output

continued central
venous oximetry

blood lactic acid levels

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular System: Cardiogenic Shock

Medical Management

correct underlying problem


restore tissue perfusion
prevent further damage
pharmacologic therapy: vasopressors, diuretics,

vasodilators, positive inotropic medications


other treatments: intra aortic balloon pump {IABP}decreases the workload of the heart by inflating during
diastole and deflating just before systole

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular System: Cardiogenic Shock

Nursing Management

Assessment

cardiac rhythm
hemodynamic parameters: tissue perfusion
intake & output
reduce anxiety of patient & family
safety due to confusion, anxiety

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Cardiac Tamponade

Definition

An increase in the intra-pericardial pressure due to:

fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac


direct or metastatic tumor invasion in the pericardial sac, or
fibrosis of the sac due to radiation therapy

HCA Critical Care College

Pericardial Tamponade

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Cardiac Tamponade

Risk Factors:

Primary tumors of the heart


Metastatic tumors to the pericardium:

Lung
Breast
Gastro-intestinal
Leukemia
Hodgkins & Non-Hodgkins Lymphomas
Sarcoma
Melanoma

other
HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Cardiac Tamponade

Risk Factors cont

Patients who have received > 4000 cGy to a field which


includes the heart

Patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome


(AIDS) related Karposis Sarcoma

Drug related

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Cardiovascular: Cardiac Tamponade

Pathophysiology

As the intra-pericardial pressure increases:

left ventricular filling decreases


the ability of the heart to pump decreases
cardiac output decreases
impaired systemic perfusion occurs

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Cardiac Tamponade

Clinical Manifestations:

Small effusions do not usually cause any symptoms


Large effusions especially with rapid accumulation of
fluid causes: epigastric or retro-sternal chest pain which is
often relieved when sitting or leaning forward
dysphagia, cough, dyspnea, hoarseness, increased JVD,
muffled heart sounds, pericardial friction rub, tachycardia,
and pulsus paradoxus
complications

HCA Critical Care College

Pericardial Tamponade

Cardiac tamponade usually occurs within the


first 12 hours post-op but may occur up to 3
weeks post-op
Signs/Symptoms:

Fever
Pericardial friction rub
Lethargy
Oliguria
Epigastric or sternal pain
Pulsus Paradoxus
Decreased chest tube output
Chest pain
HCA Critical Care College

Cardiac Tamponade
Hemodynamic Implications:
Early: Normal CO, HR, normal to low BP
Middle to Late:
CO, BP, JVD, HR, CVP/PCWP, UO
Diastolic pressure, Narrowed pulse pressure, pulsus
paradoxus, widened mediastinum

Late: Shock, PEA, death

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiac Tamponade
Diagnostic Findings
CXR: Widened mediastinum
Pulsus Paradoxus
Flattening of arterial waveform by
>10mmHg pressure on expiration
Pericardial Friction Rub

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Widened Mediastinum

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Cardiovascular: Cardiac Tamponade

Medical Management:

Diagnostics:

CXR, EKG, Echocardiogram, CT, MRI

Treatment:

Symptom management

pericardiocentesis
sclerosing
radiation Therapy
chemotherapy
corticosteroids

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiac Tamponade

Treatment
Fluid Challenge for low BP or low
CO
Inotropic medications
Re-exploration of mediastinum

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Cardiac Tamponade

Nursing Management

Supportive Strategies:

emotional support
O2
repositioning to promote circulation
assist with activities
administer medications as prescribed

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Potassium 3.5-5.5 mEq/L

The major intracellular electrolyte

important for neuromuscular, skeletal and cardiac muscle


functioning
98% in cells; 2 % in extracellular fluid
potassium is regulated by the sodium potassium pump
Requires intact renal system
80% of K+ excreted daily
aldosterone also increases excretion of K+ by the kidneys

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypokalemia

Potassium below 3.5 mEq/L


common electrolyte imbalance
Related to:

deficit in potassium stores


metabolic alkalosis
loss of intestinal contents
prolonged intestinal suctioning
recent illeostomy
villous adenoma

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypokalemia

Causes of Hypokalemia cont

Hyperaldosteronism
potassium wasting diuretics
medications: corticosteriods
PCN, Carbenicillin, Amphotericin B
patients with long term insulin
secretion
magnesium depletion

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypokalemia

Clinical
Manifestations

Diagnostics

fatigue, muscle
weakness, leg cramps,
constipation, anorexia,
nausea, vomiting,
numbness, tingling,
dysrhythmias

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EKG changes

flat T waves, inverted T


waves, depressed ST
segment, elevated U
wave

24 hour urine
potassium excretion

Cardiovascular: Hypokalemia

Medical Management

Oral / IV potassium
replacement
Monitor EKG

Nursing Management

HCA Critical Care College

monitor for s/s in


patients at risk
administer medications
as directed
diet

Cardiovascular: Hyperkalemia

Potassium level over 5.5 mEq/L

seen in patients with poor renal function


Leukocytosis
Thrombocytosis
False Hyperkalemia
Medications: Potassium, Heparin, Ace inhibitors,
Captopril, NSAIDS, potassium sparing diuretics
Acidosis: K+ move out of cells into ECF:

tumor lysis syndrome


extensive injury or burns

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hyperkalemia

Clinical
Manifestations

Diagnostics

peaked, narrow T waves,


ST segment depression,
shortened QT interval,
disappearance of P waves
cardiac arrest
muscle weakness,
paralysis, GI disturbances

HCA Critical Care College

EKG changes
Arterial blood gases
potassium levels

Cardiovascular: Hyperkalemia

Medical
Management

restrict dietary
potassium
kayexelate
calcium gluconate
Insulin
Beta 2 Antagonists
Dialysis
D/C potassium
sparing diuretics
HCA Critical Care College

Nursing
Management

observe for muscle


weakness and
dysrhythmias
accurate blood
sample
teach about
foods/salts with
potassium

Cardiovascular: Calcium 8.5-10.5 mg/dL

99% in the skeletal system; 1% in blood stream


Level is controlled mainly by the parathyroid hormone
which releases calcium from bone
Regulates:

muscle contractions
transmitting of nerve impulses
blood coagulation

absorbed from the GI tract in the presence of gastric acid


and Vitamin D
excreted mainly in feces; some in urine
HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypocalcemia

Calcium level below 8.5 mg/dL

Causes:

Osteoporosis
immobility
Hypoparathyroidism
Pancreatitis
Renal failure
Hyperphosphatemia
Inadequate Vit. D absorption
Magnesium deficiency
Low serum albumin
HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypocalcemia

Causes cont

alkalosis
alcohol abuse
Medications: aluminum containing antacids,
caffeine, Aminoglycosides, Cisplatin, Corticosteroids,
Mithramycin, loop diuretics, Phosphates and
Isoniazid

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypocalcemia

Clinical
Manifestations

Diagnostics

tetany
pain due to spasms
Trosseaus sign
Chvosteks sign
Seizures
EKG changes

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low albumin
(corrected serum
calcium)
other lab values:

magnesium,
phosphorous, PTH

Cardiovascular: Hypocalcemia

Medical Management

IV or p.o. calcium
Vit. D
dietary supplements

Nursing Management

HCA Critical Care College

safety precautions:
seizures, airway,
confusion
Teaching
risk for falls
dietary intake of
calcium
medications:
Fosamax, Evista,
Calcitonin

Cardiovascular: Hypercalcemia

Calcium level greater than 10.5 mg/dL

mortality 50 % if not treated


Malignancies
Hyperparathyroidism
Immobility
Thiazide diuretics
Vit. A or D intoxication
Lithium
Alkaline antacids
Excessive milk intake

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypercalcemia

Clinical
Manifestations

muscle weakness
incoordination
anorexia
constipation
paralytic ileus
confusion
cardiac standstill

Diagnostics

HCA Critical Care College

calcium level
albumin
EKG
PTH Levels
xrays
Sulkowitch urine test:
measures amount of
calcium in urine

Cardiovascular: Hypercalcemia

Medical Management

decrease calcium:

Chemotherapy
partial parathyroidectomy

dialysis

medications:

Lasix, IV fluids: NS, IV phosphate, Calcitonin, Aredia,


Didronel, Mithramycin, Neutra-phos

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypercalcemia

Nursing Management

monitor for s/s of Hypercalcemia


push oral fluids with sodium
safety
teaching

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Cardiovascular: Sodium 135-145 mEq/L

Mostly located in the extracellular fluid


controls water distribution throughout the body
functions

muscle contraction
transmission of nerve

impulses

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hyponatremia

Sodium less than 135 mEq/L

ratio of body sodium to body water


can be related to fluid volume excess or deficit
sodium can be loss via:
vomiting, diarrhea, fistulas, sweating
diuretics
deficiency of aldosterone
types of Hyponatremia
SIADH:
Dilutional Hyponatremia
HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hyponatremia
Clinical Manifestations

depends on cause/rate of occurrence

dry mucosa
decreased saliva
poor skin turgor
low B/P
nausea
abdominal cramping
confusion
muscle twitching to seizures
hemiparesis
papilledema

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hyponatremia

Diagnostics

sodium levels
urine sodium
urine specific gravity

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hyponatremia

Medical Management

careful administration
of sodium( no > 12
mEq/L every 24 hours
SIADH- Lasix is added
restrict fluid

Nursing Management

monitor patients at risk


monitor for s/s of
hyponatremia
teach:

HCA Critical Care College

dietary restrictions
medications
safety

Cardiovascular: Hypernatremia

Sodium level greater than 145 mEq/L

gain of sodium in excess of water


or loss of water in excess of sodium
fluid deprivation
hypertonic enteral feedings
Diabetes Insipidus
heat stroke
excess of sodium bicarbonate or a hypertonic saline
near drowning in sea water
malfunction of hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis

HCA Critical Care College

Cardiovascular: Hypernatremia

Clinical
Manifestations

neurologic

Diagnostics

delusions,
disorientation
flushed skin
dry, swollen tongue
increased muscle tone
pulmonary edema
postural hypotension

HCA Critical Care College

sodium level > 145


osmolarity level urine
osmolarity
urine specific gravity

Cardiovascular: Hypernatremia

Medical Management

gradually administer a
hypotonic or isotonic
nonsaline solution to
avoid cerebral edema
Diuretics
Desmopressin Acetate
(DDAVP): treat: Diabetes
Insipidus

HCA Critical Care College

Nursing Management

strict I&O
teach

diet
medications

monitor for s/s of


Hypernatremia

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