Question

Mr. Miller is a 72-years- Old male with diabetes that comes in for complaints of shortness of breath and weight gain. He states that he frequently becomes exhausted and has extreme shortness of breath climbing the stairs to his bedroom. He has been sleeping on 2 pillows for the past 2 weeks. He also reports a constant, irritating, nonproductive cough lately. Vital signs: T: 98.2; P; 110 BPM; B/P:143/83mm/Hg; RR:30; O2 Sat:90% on RA.

1) Understanding the pathophysiology of heart failure, describe 3 objective findings the nurse should expect when assessing Mr. Miller and provide your rationale for each. Describe 2 priority interventions that should be provided to Mr. Miller.

2) The provider Spironolactone 25mg PO Daily, Carvedilol 6.25mg PO BID, and Digoxin 0.125mg PO daily. For each medication Identify its class and describe its purpose in treating heart failure. Identity priority monitoring for this patient based on these medication orders.

3) Miller receives an EKG on admission and is found to be in atrial fibrillation. He shares that he felt some palpitations over the couple of weeks but denies a previous atrial fibrillation diagnosis. Describe why rhythm is concerning and the treatment nurse the nurse will anticipate.

4) Compare and contrast supraventricular tachycardia and ventricular tachycardia. Discuss EKG findings, manifestations, and treatment for each.

Answer 1

Heart Failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively . This results in fatigue, edema, shortness of breath.

For detailed answer to the above questions, please refer to the notes below-

Thank you.