respiratory failure
Diseases Process
SN instructed patient on high blood pressure. The high blood pressure is a common condition and when not treated, can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.
SN instructed patient about that swelling of ankle or hands or increased dyspnea ( SOB ) or moist coughing is a sign of congestive heart failure ( CHF ) and contact with physician is needed reporting symptoms. Patient was able to be taught back.
SN explained that the symptoms / signs of congestive heart failure ( CHF ) may include: Shortness of breath ( also called dyspnea ) most commonly during activity, at rest, or while sleeping, which may come on suddenly and wake you up. You often have difficulty breathing while lying flat and may need to prop up the upper body and head on two pillows. You often complain of waking up tired or feeling anxious and restless. Blood backs up in the pulmonary veins ( the vessels that return blood from the lungs to the heart ) because the heart can't keep up with the supply. This causes fluid to leak into the lungs. Persistent coughing or wheezing, coughing that produces white or pink blood - tinged mucus. Fluid builds up in the lungs. Buildup of excess fluid in body tissues ( edema ) swelling in the feet, ankles, legs or abdomen or weight gain. You may find that your shoes feel tight.
SN explain about congestive heart failure ( CHF ). As blood flow out of the heart slows, blood returning to the heart through the veins backs up, causing fluid to build up in the tissues. The kidneys are less able to dispose of sodium and water, also causing fluid retention in the tissues. Fatigue, a tired feeling all the time and difficulty with everyday activities, such as shopping, climbing stairs, carrying groceries or walking. The heart can't pump enough blood to meet the needs of body tissues. The body diverts blood away from less vital organs, particularly muscles in the limbs, and sends it to the heart and brain. Lack of appetite, nausea, a feeling of being full or sick to your stomach. The digestive system receives less blood, causing problems with digestion. Confusion, impaired thinking, memory loss and feelings of disorientation. A caregiver or relative may notice this first. Changing levels of certain substances in the blood, such as sodium, can cause confusion. If you have 2 or more of these symptoms you may need to seek medical attention.
Patient has Dx of hypertensive heart disease without heart failure. Hypertensive heart disease refers to heart conditions caused by high blood pressure. The heart working under increased pressure causes some different heart disorders. Hypertensive heart disease can cause thickening of the heart muscle, coronary artery disease, and other conditions such as heart failure if not controlled. Follow your MD's orders for diet and medications closely
SN did head to toe assessment and vital signs monitoring done. Received patient sitting on the chair with elevated blood pressure. SN instructed patient on the disease process, and management of CHF. Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle doesn't pump blood as well as it should. When this happens, blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. Certain heart conditions gradually leave the heart too weak or stiff to fill and pump blood properly. SN instructed patient to have a healthy lifestyle. Try to lose weight, exercise, use less salt and manage stress. SN will continue to assess and instruct the patient.
Instructed in measures to prevent or manage bronchitis such as getting adequate rest, eating a well-balanced diet, and avoiding all respiratory irritants (smoke, dust, air pollution, etc.).
Instructed in factors that increase the risk of asthma such as respiratory infection, cold air, emotional stress, allergens (dust, pollens, certain medicine, certain food, etc), environment pollution, exercise and fatigue.
Instructed patient about factors that increase risk for pneumonia, such as smoking and air pollution, upper respiratory infections, prolonged immobility, malnutrition; chronic diseases: diabetes, cancer, renal disease, cardiac disease; exposure to cold, damp weather, inhalation of noxious substances, use of immunosuppressive drugs; age: very young or very old, frequent intoxication from alcohol.
Instructed patient about measures to prevent or treat pneumonia: eating well balanced meals, adequate rest, avoiding upper respiratory infections or getting promptly treatment for early symptoms, drinking large amounts of fluids to thin secretions and replace fluid loss, avoiding spread of infections by washing hands and properly dispose of tissues. Avoid smoking; perform coughing and deep breathing exercises.