Case Study – Heart Failure
Instructions:
Please complete the following case study: Chapter 34 Patient with Heart Failure; and submit your assignment here by the due date October 9th 1159pm.
Answer each objective thoroughly below in your own words, you will receive a zero for copy and pasting
Cite all references. References must be from a Medical Surgical Nursing Textbook
Overview
Heart failure (HF) is an abnormal clinical condition that involves inadequate pumping and/or filling of the heart. This results in the inability of the heart to provide sufficient blood to meet the oxygen needs of the tissues. HF is characterized by ventricular dysfunction, reduced exercise tolerance, diminished quality of life, and shortened life expectancy. Several factors predispose patients to the development of heart failure. Any factor that interferes with the normal mechanisms of cardiac output can lead to heart failure. Heart failure is classified according to pathology (systolic or diastolic), the part of the heart affected (right- or left-sided failure), the person’s tolerance to physical activity (New York Heart Association Functional Classification), and the absence or presence of ventricular dysfunction along with the severity of symptoms (ACCF/AHA Stages of Heart Failure). Interprofessional care of patients with heart failure includes nonpharmacologic, pharmacologic, and nutritional therapies. Complications arising from heart failure include pleural effusion, dysrhythmias, left ventricular thrombus, hepatomegaly, and renal failure.
Objectives
1. Identify risk factors associated with heart failure.
2. Describe the pathophysiologic changes related to heart failure.
3. Prioritize assessment of a patient exhibiting an exacerbation of heart failure.
4. Evaluate diagnostic tests used for patients with heart failure.
5. Discuss drug management appropriate for a patient with heart failure.
6. Appropriately delegate care of a patient with heart failure.
7. Formulate a teaching plan for a patient with heart failure.
Case Study
R.K. is a 68-year-old white woman with a history of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and coronary artery disease (CAD). She has had two myocardial infarctions (MIs) over the past several years. She smoked 2 packs of cigarettes for 30 years, quitting after her first MI 4 years ago. She has been overweight most of her life and has no regular exercise except for household duties. R.K.’s current drug regimen includes ezetimibe/simvastatin (Vytorin) 10/40 mg/day, indapamide 2.5 mg/day, and losartan (Cozaar) 50 mg bid. She has scheduled an appointment with the nurse practitioner at the local health care clinic.
