Cardiac Patient Flashcards
What is included in the assessment stage?
-client info
-history
-clinical examination
-diagnostic tests
-assessment of patient needs and potential problems
What is included in the clinical examination?
-pulse rate, rhythm and quality
-compare pulse and heart rate
-MM and CRT
-heart and chest auscultation
(rate, rhythm, abnormal sounds, lung sounds)
-respiratory rate
-blood pressure measurement
What are the 4 diagnostic tests?
-radiograph
-ECG
-echocardiography
-blood pressure
What is an ECG?
-electrocardiography
-measurement of electrical impulses in the heart
What equipment is required for an ECG?
-ECG machine and leads
-surgical spirit
-electrode gel
-swabs
How is an ECG carried out?
-patient in right lateral recumbency with restraint
-clips and leads swabbed with spirit
-check good lead contact
-leads not touching each other
-no other electrical equipment
-patient should be kept calm
-record in 30 secs bursts
-record results
What is echocardiography?
-ultrasound scan of the heart
-can evaluate heart structure, function and blood flow
How is blood pressure monitoring carried out?
-stress free environment
-choose correct cuff width
-place cuff in correct location, keep level with heart
-apply spirit and gel to pulse site
-apply gel to transducer and inflate the cuff slowly until pulse disappears
-reading taken when pulse returns
-take 3 readings and take average
What are potential problems for cardiac patients?
-murmurs
-strokes
-death
-circulation issues
-dehydration
-cardiac arrest
-respiratory distress
-muscle atrophy due to decreased exercise
What nursing interventions can be carried out for cardiac patients?
-stress free environment
-minimised handling
-controlled exercise
-provide oxygenation
-monitor fluids intake and weight
-maintenance of body temperature
-supported sleep and rest
-accurate mediation
-allow toileting opportunities
