Heart Failure

Question 1

What are early-mid heart failure signs and symptoms?

Answer 1

• Resting tachycardia
• Abnormal EKG
• Tachypnea
• Diaphoresis
• Crackles upon pulmonary auscultation
• S3 and/or S4 with cardiac auscultation

Question 2

What are later heart failure signs and symptoms?

Answer 2

Peripheral edema

Question 3

What is the NP’s role in heart failure?

Answer 3

• Identify EARLY!!! and REFER to Cardiology
• Identify and treat systemic factors (thyroid, DM, infection, MI, valve dysfunction, etc.)
• Reinforce lifestyle modification (sodium restriction, medication compliance)
• Eliminate medications that contribute to heart failure (NSAID’s, CCB’s, antidepressants, Bactrim, etc.)