cardiac-catheterization
Instructed patient on diagnosis of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), which occurs when the heart is unable to expel the blood from the ventricle, causing congestion.
Instructed patient on diagnosis of Pulmonary Edema, which is very likely to occur when there is an accumulation of fluid in the lungs, causing difficulty breathing. Contact your primary care physician if the condition worsens, or if you exhibit other symptoms.
Instructed patient about the assessment of chest pain, including amount, frequency, location, duration and any associated symptoms. Also instructed patient to report immediately to his/her doctor.
Instructed patient on management of chest pain. These steps are to be followed in case of occurrences: sit or lie down and rest immediately at onset of pain, if NTG available take as instructed and/or call 911.
Instructed patient about the use of NTG for chest pain or pressure. Beginning pain or pressure episode take 1 tablet every 5 minutes, and up to 3 tablets over 15 minutes. If complete pain relief is not achieved after taking the 3rd tablet, call 911.
Instructed patient to sit or lie down prior to taking NTG, as this medication dilates arteries increasing blood supply to the heart, and dizziness or fainting may occur.
Instructed patient on the possible side effects of NTG, including headache, dizziness with position changes, weakness, flushing, palpitations, fainting, nausea and vomiting. Instructed patient to notify MD if any side effects occur.
Instructed patient about common risk factors associated with heart disease such as: smoking, family history, hypertension, stress and diet.
Instructed to store NTG in cool, dark place, in tightly closed container. To assure freshness replace supply of sublingual tablets every 3 months.
Taught that history of diabetes, cardiac disease and renal disease are potential factors of cerebrovascular accident (stroke).