Medical-Surgical Nursing 1
Medical-Surgical Nursing 1
Medical-Surgical Nursing 1
Nursing Management:
1. Look for the hidden sources of sodium
2. Monitor for: body temperature, thirst and level of
consciousness
3. Prevent hypernatremia
4. Correct hypernatremia
Potassium Deficit
-potassium serum level <3.5mEq/L
causes:
>alkalosis, GI losses, hyperaldosteronism,
potassium losing diuretics, other drugs
(corticosteroids, amphotericin B, carbenicillin
and sodium penicillin), insulin hypersecretion,
inability or unwillingness to eat a normal diet,
magnesium depletion, Cushing’s syndrome
signs and symptoms:
>fatigue, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, muscle
weakness, leg cramps, decreased bowel motility,
paresthesias, dysrhythmias and increased
sensitivity to digitalis, glucose intolerance
Confirmatory tests:
1. Decreased serum potassium
2. ECG changes
-flat or inverted T waves and depression of the
ST segments
-elevation of the U waves
3. Metabolic Alkalosis
4. Urine potassium concentration of >20mEq/24 hours
Medical Management:
1. Potassium replacement therapy
-if without abnormal potassium loss, 40-80mEqs/day
-oral (Kalium Durule) or IV (K chloride, K phosphate or
K acetate)
Nursing Management:
1. Monitoring for s/sx or progression of hypokalemia
2. Preventing hypokalemia
3. Correcting hypokalemia
4. Administering IV potassium
-after adequate urine flow
-20mEqs/hour or less
-30-40mEqs/L and below unless severe
Potassium Excess
-less common but more severe than hypokalemia
-causes:
>renal failure, excessive intake of potassium,
infection, hyporaldosteronism and Addison’s
disease, medications (KCl, heparin, ACE
inhibitors, NSAIDS and K sparing diuretics) and
acidosis
-clinical manifestations:
>dysrhythmias, skeletal muscle weakness and
paralysis
>CNS and PNS involvement
>Flaccid quadriplegia, respiratory and speech
muscle paralysis
Confirmatory tests:
1. ECG
-peaked, narrow T waves, ST segment
depression and a shortened QT interval
-prolonged PR interval then absence of P wave
2. ABG
3. Serum potassium level increase
Medical Management:
1. Monitoring of serum potassium with ECG findings
2. Emergency pharmacologic therapy
>calcium gluconate or calcium chloride
>sodium bicarbonate
>insulin and glucose
>beta 2 agonist
3. Dialysis
Nursing Management:
1. Monitoring
2. Preventing hyperkalemia
3. Correcting hyperkalemia
Pseudohyperkalemia
>use of tourniquet in an exercising muscle
>marked leukocytosis and thrombocytosis
>familial pseudohyperkalemia
Calcium Deficit
-less than 8.5mg/dl of calcium in the serum
-causes:
>hypoparathyroidism
>those who received citrated blood
>pancreatitis, renal failure
>vitamin D deficiency, magnesium deficiency
>medullary thyroid carcinoma
>low albumin levels, alkalosis and alcohol abuse
-signs and symptoms:
>tetany, seizures and mental changes
-confirmatory test:
>ECG- prolonged QT interval
Management:
1. Administer calcium salts
-calcium carbonate, calcium chloride, calcium
gluceptate
Risks:
a. Sloughing of tissues
b. Bradycardia then cardiac arrest
c. Digitalis toxicity
2. IVF but not normal saline or solutions containing
phosphates and bicarbonate
3. Vitamin D therapy
4. Aluminum hydroxide, calcium acetate, calcium
carbonate
5. Nutritional therapy
6. Screen for and treat hypomagnesemia
Nursing Management:
1. Monitor hypocalcemia for patients at risk
2. Airway management
3. Seizure precaution
4. Patient education
-caffeine and alcohol decreases absorption
-nicotine increases excretion
-medications to decrease bone loss
(alendronate, raloxifene and calcitonin)
Calcium Excess
-with high mortality rate
-causes:
>malignancies and hyperparathyroidism
>immobilization
>use of Thiazide diuretics
>milk-alkali syndrome
>Vitamin A and D intoxication
-signs and symptoms:
*proportional to the elevation of serum calcium
>muscle weakness, incoordination, anorexia and
constipation
>cardiac arrest
>dehydration
>abdominal and/or bone pain
>abdominal distention and paralytic ileus
>excessive urination then polyuria
>s/sx of PUD
>changes in the LOC and mental status
*hypercalcemic crisis
Laboratory tests:
1. Serum calcium determination
2. ECG
- shortening of the QT interval and ST segment
- prolongation of the PR interval
- dysrhythmias
3. Double antibody PTH test
4. X-Ray - osteoporosis
5. Sulkowitch test
Management:
1. Pharmacologic therapy
-dilute the serum calcium and promote its exc.
(normal saline, administer phosphates, diuretics,
calcitonin)
-Cancer treatment
-Corticosteroid therapy
> to decrease bone turnover and tubular
reabsorption
-Biphosphonates (pamidronate)
>causes myalgia, pyrexia and decreased WBC
-Mithramycin
>causes thrombocytopenia and nephrotoxicity and
hepatotoxicity
-IV phosphates should be used with caution
>Phospho-Soda, Neutra-Phos
Nursing Management:
1. Monitor the s/sx
2. Increase mobility
3. Increase oral fluid intake
Chloride Deficit
-serum chloride level below 96mEq/L
-causes:
>chloride deficient formulas, salt restricted diets
>GI tube drainage, severe vomiting and diarrhea
-signs and symptoms:
>hypokalemia, hyponatremia and metabolic
alkalosis
(hyperexcitability of muscles, tetany,
hyperactivity of deep tendon reflexes, weakness,
twitching, muscle cramps, cardiac
dysrhythmias, seizures and coma)
-lab tests:
>serum chloride determination
>serum potassium and sodium determination
>ABG
>urine chloride level decrease (normal value-
110-250mEq/L)
-medical management:
>chloride replacement
normal saline and half strength saline
>reevaluate the use of diuretics
>nutritional therapy
tomato juice, salty broth, canned
vegetables, processed meats and fruits
>restriction of free water intake
>ammonium chloride
-nursing management
>monitoring of intake and output, ABG
determination values, serum electrolyte
levels, LOC, muscle strength and
movement
>vital signs and respiratory assessments
>patient education as regards to replacement
therapy
Chloride Excess
-serum chloride level higher than 106mEq/L
-associated with hypernatremia, bicarbonate loss
and metabolic acidosis
-causes:
>loss of bicarbonate (GI and/or renal)
-signs and symptoms:
>metabolic acidosis, hypervolemia and
hypernatremia
(tachypnea, weakness, lethargy, deep rapid
respirations, diminished cognitive ability and
hypertension)
>decrease in CO, dysrhythmias and coma
-lab tests:
>serum sodium and chloride determination
>ABG- Bicarbonate less than 22mEq/L
-normal anion gap (8-12mEq/L)
>urine chloride concentration greater than
250mEq/L
-medical management:
>IVF therapy
-Lactated Ringer’s Solution
>IV sodium bicarbonate
>Diuretics
>Fluids, sodium and chloride restriction
-nursing management:
>monitoring V/S, ABG, I&O
>assessment of neurologic, respiratory and
cardiac functions
>patient education as regards to nutrition
Acid-Base Balance
Normal blood pH
-7.35 to 7.45
Blood pH compatible with life
-6.80 to 7.80
Buffer Systems
Classification of burns:
A. According to burn depth:
1. Superficial Partial Thickness (Similar to First Degree
Burn)
-causes:
*sunburn *low intensity flash
-involves the epidermis and possibly a portion of
the dermis
-signs and symptoms:
*tingling *pain that is soothed by
*hyperesthesia cooling
*reddened *possibly blisters
*minimal or no
edema
-complete recovery within a week; no scarring
-peel off
2. Deep Partial thickness (Similar to Second Degree
Burn)
-causes:
*scalds
*flash flame
-involves the epidermis, upper dermis, portion of the
deeper dermis
-s/sx:
*pain *sensitive to cold air
*hyperesthesia *blistered, weeping surface
*broken epidermis *edema
-recovery in 2-4 weeks
-some scarring and depigmentation contractures
-infection may convert it to full thickness
3. Full Thickness (Similar to Third Degree)
-causes:
*flame
*prolonged exposure to hot liquids
*electric current
*chemical
-involves the epidermis, entire dermis and
sometimes subcutaneous tissue, may involve
connective tissue, muscle and bone
-s/sx:
*pain free *hemolysis
*shock *entrance and exit wounds
*hematuria *broken skin with exposed
*edema fats
-eschar sloughs
-grafting necessary
-scarring and loss of contour and function;
contractures
-loss of digits or extremity possible
Physiologic Responses to Burns
Local Pathophysiologic Response
-if only less than 25% of the TBSA is involved
Local and Systemic Pathophysiologic Response
-if more than 25% of the TBSA is involved
-maximal if burns cover 60% or more of the TBSA
1. Cardiovascular Response
fluid loss > hypovolemia > decreased cardiac output >
decreased BP > decreased perfusion and oxygen delivery
> onset of burn shock > sympathetic response >
peripheral vasoconstriction > further decrease in the
CO
-the greatest volume of fluid leak occurs in 24 – 36
hours after the burn, peaking at 6 – 8 hours
-basically caused by increased capillary permeability
-diuresis occurs for several days to 2 weeks
2. Burn Edema
-swelling maximal after 24 hours
-begins to resolve 1-2 days post burn
-completely resolved after 7-10 days post injury
Edema > pressure on the small blood vessels
and nerves of distal extremity > ischemia >
3. Effects on Fluids and Electrolytes and Blood Volume
-evaporative loss through the burn wound (3-5 L)
-hyponatremia (dilutional due to fluid shift from
interstitial to intravascular space)
-hyperkalemia due to massive cell destruction
*later results in hypokalemia due to dilution caused
by fluid shift
-anemia due to blood loss and hemolysis
(though may be seen as polycythemia due to
excessive plasma loss)
4. Pulmonary Response
-inhalation injury > release of histamine, serotonin and
thromboxane > catecholamine release > hypoxia
-atelectasis may be present due to decreased surfactant
-types of pulmonary injury:
*upper airway injury
-results from direct heat and edema
*inhalation injury below the glottis
-usually results from carbon monoxide poisoning
-respiratory acidosis may occur over the first 5 days after
the burn
-indicators of a possible pulmonary damage;
*hx indicating that burn occurred in an enclosed space
*burns of the face and neck
*singed nasal hair
*hoarseness, voice change, dry cough, stridor
*bloody sputum
*Labored breathing or tachypnea
*Erythema or blistering of the oral or pharyngeal
mucosa
-possible consequences will be respiratory failure and
acute respiratory distress syndrome
4. Other Systemic Responses
-hemolysis and muscle damage > release of hemoglobin
and myoglobin > acute tubular necrosis and renal failure
-decreased immune response > sepsis
-loss of skin tissue > altered thermoregulation >
hypothermia > later hyperthermia due to
hypermetabolism
-sympathetic hyperactivity > paralytic ileus and Curling’s
ulcer
Management:
1. Emergent/ Resuscitative Phase of Burn Care
A. On the scene Care
-airway, breathing and circulation
-disability, exposure and fluid resuscitation
-duration (from onset of injury to completion of
fluid resuscitation
-priorities:
*first aid
*prevention of shock
*prevention of respiratory distress
*detection and treatment of concomitant
injuries
*wound assessment and initial care
-emergency procedures at the burn scene:
*extinguish the flames
*cool the burn
*remove restrictive objects
*cover the wound
*irrigate chemical burns
B. Emergency Medical Management:
-transport to the nearest hospital > life-saving
measures
-ABC
-humidification, bronchodilation, mucolytic agents,
coughing
-ET tube insertion and assisted ventilation
-continuous positive airway pressure
-assessment for head and neck injuries
-burn wound management
-IV access, CVP insertion
-indwelling urinary catheter insertion
-baseline data
-tetanus prophylaxis
-adequate pain relief
C. Transfer to Burn Center
D. Management of Fluid Loss and Shock
-fluid replacement therapy
-fluid requirements
Problems Associated:
>Acute Resp and Renal Failure
>Distributive Shock
> Compartment Syndrome
2. Acute or Intermediate Phase of Burn Care
-begins 48 to 72 hours after the burn injury
-goals:
A. Infection Prevention
-Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Proteus, E.
coli, and Klebsiella
-Candida is also being implicated
-3 characteristics of burn wound sepsis:
*100,000 bacteria/gram of tissue
*inflammation
*sludging and thrombosis of dermal blood
vessels
-early enteral feeding can be used for prevention
B. Wound Cleaning
-hydrotherapy
>use of tap water
>temperature of water should be
maintained at 37.8C
>room temperature should be maintained
at 26.6-29.4C
>should be limited to a 20-30 minute
period
C. Topical Antibacterial therapy
-criteria for choosing antibiotics:
*effective against gram negative organisms
*clinically effective
*penetrates the eschar but without systemic
toxicity
*does not lose its effectiveness
*cost effective, available and acceptable
*easy to apply
-examples:
1. Silver sulfadiazine
2. Silver Nitrate
3. Mafenide Acetate
D. Wound Dressing
E. Dressing Changes
F. Wound Debridement
-2 goals:
*to remove tissue contaminated by bacteria
*to remove devitalized tissue or burn eschar in
preparation for grafting and wound healing
G. Pain Management
H. Nutritional Support
Shock
-types:
1. Hypovolemic Shock
2. Cardiogenic Shock
3. Circulatory Shock (Distributive Shock)
> Septic Shock
> Neurogenic Shock
> Anaphylactic Shock
*Obstructive Shock
-Effect of shock to normal cellular functions
-Vascular Responses
1. Central Regulatory Mechanisms
2. Local Regulatory Mechanisms
-Blood Pressure Regulation
BP= CO x TPR CO= SV x HR
>Maintained by:
a. nervous system
b. endocrine system
c. chemicals
>Maintain tissue/organ perfusion:
a. MAP= systolic BP + 2 (diastolic BP)
3
*should exceed 70-80 mmHg
-Stages of Shock
1. Compensatory Stage
>BP is maintained within normal limits due to the
effect of normally functioning regulatory mechanisms
>s/sx:
*metabolic acidosis *mental status
change
*tachypnea
>medical management:
a. identify the cause of shock
b. correction of shock
c. support of the regulatory mechanisms
>nursing management:
a. monitoring tissue perfusion
*LOC *urine output
*V/S *skin
*laboratory values
b. reducing anxiety
c. promoting safety
2. Progressive Stage
-exhaustion of the compensatory mechanisms
*myocardial depression
*increased capillary permeability
-assessment and dxtic findings:
a. respiratory effects
hypoxemia and hypercarbia
intense inflammatory response
decreased surfactant production
acute respiratory distress syndrome
(acute lung injury, shock lung, non cardiogenic
pulmonary edema)
b. cardiovascular effects
dysrhythmias
myocardial infarction
cardiac depression
c. neurologic effects
decreased cerebral perfusion
*mental status change
*behavioral change
*pupillary dilation
d. renal effects
MAP<80mmHg
acute renal failure
e. hepatic effects
decreased blood flow
less ability to perform hepatic functions
f. gastrointestinal effects
decreased blood flow
*PUD
*bloody diarrhea
*sepsis
g. hematologic
DIC
shock
-medical management:
a. depends on the type of shock
b. depends on the decompensation of the organ
systems
Management Common To All Types Of Shock
a. optimize intravascular volume
b. supporting the pumping action of the heart
c. improving the competence of the vascular
system
Nursing Management:
a. preventing complications
b. promoting rest and comfort
c. supporting family members
3. Irreversible Stage
-severe organ damage
-can no longer respond to treatment
-survival is less likely
-medical management:
a. same with the progressive stage
-nursing management:
a. same with progressive shock
b. moral support to the family
c. ethical issues (living will)
Clinical Findings in the Stages of Shock
Finding Compensatory Progressive Irreversible
BP normal Systolic <80 Mechanical or
-90mmHg pharma support
HR >100bpm >150bpm erratic, asystole
dehydration
infection
Urolithiasis
urinary stasis
periods of immobility
Gender Differences
1. resting rate
2. stroke volume higher in women
3. ejection fraction
4. conduction time is briefer in women
5. arteries occlude more easily in women with
atherosclerosis
6. effects of estrogen in cardiovascular system of
women
-regulation of vasomotor tone
-response to vascular injury
-good liver function
-increased coagulation proteins
-decreased fibrinolytic substances
Diagnostic Work-ups
Purposes:
1. to aid in the diagnosis of diseases
2. for prognostication
3. to screen patients at risk of diseases
4. monitor serum concentration of meds
5. monitor therapeutic effects of meds
A. Cardiac Enzymes
>Creatine Kinase (CK)
*MB
-most specific enzyme for MI
-first enzyme level to rise in MI
*MM and BB
-other isoenzymes
>Lactate Dehydrogenase
-peaks 2-3days after MI
>Myoglobin
-starts to increase 1-3hours after MI; 4-12hours
(peak)
>Troponin I
-contractile proteins found in cardiac muscles
only
-starts to rise 3-4 hours after MI
-peaks in 4-24 hours and remain elevated for 1-3
weeks
B. Blood Chemistry
>Lipid Profile
*Total Cholesterol
-should be less than 200mg/dl
*Serum Lipoproteins
LDL - should be less than 130mg/dl
HDL - should be 35-65mg/dl in men
- should be less than 35 to 85mg/dl in F
TAG - should be 40-150mg/dl
Factors that may elevate TAG level:
1. obesity
2. alcohol use
3. diabetes
Factors that contribute variations in cholesterol level:
1. age 4. exercise 7. tobacco use
2. gender 5. genetics 8. stress level
3. diet 6. menopause
Factors that lower HDL level
1. smoking 4. physical inactivity
2. diabetes
3. obesity
>Serum Electrolytes
>BUN and Creatinine
>Serum Glucose Level
C. Coagulation Studies
>PTT
-effects of Heparin therapy
-intrinsic pathway
-1.5 to 2.5x of their baseline values
>PT
-effects of Warfarin therapy
-extrinsic pathway
-2.5-3.5x (INR)
D. Hematologic Studies
>CBC
-WBC monitoring in immunocompromised patient
after heart transplantation
-associated anemia will aggravate CAD
E. Chest X-Ray
-for the evaluation of the size, position and contour of
the heart
-cardiac and pericardial calcification
F. ECG
>Continuous ECG Monitoring
a. Hardwire Cardiac Monitoring
b. Telemetry
c. Transtelephoning
G. Cardiac Stress Testing
a. Exercise Stress Test
-by using a treadmill or stationary bike
b. Pharmacologic Stress Test
-by using Dipyridamole or Adenosine
c. Emotional Stress Test
Purposes of Cardiac Stress Test
>to evaluate CAD
>to determine the cause of chest pain
>to assess the functional capacity of the heart
after MI or surgery
>to evaluate the effectiveness of anti-anginal
drugs
>to evaluate dysrhythmias after physical exercise
>to determine specific goals for a fitness program
H. Echocardiography
-to determine:
a. pericardial effusions
b. etiology of heart murmurs
c. function of prosthetic heart valves
d. chamber size
e. ventricular wall motion
*Transesophageal Echocardiography
-with 6 hours of fasting prior
-IV line
-with local anesthetic and sedation
-BP and ECG monitoring
-after the study:
extension of fasting for another 4 hours
monitoring for 30 – 60 minutes
sorethroat for the next 24 hours
I. Radionuclide Imaging
>to evaluate:
a. coronary artery perfusion
b. myocardial ischemia and infarction
c. left ventricular function
>uses:
Thallium 201 emits gamma rays
Technetium 99m detected by scintillation
camera
>types:
a. Myocardial Perfusion Imaging
b. Computed Tomography
c. Positron Emission Tomography
d. Magnetic Resonance Imaging
J. Cardiac Catheterization
-catheter advancement guided by fluoroscopy
-to measure oxygen saturation and pressures on
right and left side of the heart
-needs:
a. IV line
b. BP and ECG monitoring
c. resuscitation equipment at bedside
-uses contrast agent (iodine based)
-complications: (right sided cardiac catheterization)
a. dysrhythmias d. cardiac perforation
b. venous spasm e. cardiac arrest
c. infection
-complications: (left sided cardiac catheterization)
a. dysrhythmias d. systemic embolization
b. MI
c. perforation
-nursing interventions (pre-op)
1. fasting for 8 – 12 hours
2. explain that the procedure will take 2 hours or
less
3. with mild to moderate sedation
4. explain the anticipated sensations (flushing,
5. ask the patient to breath deeply or hold the
breath
>to lower the diaphram for better
visualization
>ask the patient to cough
(to disrupt a dysrhythmia and to clear the
contrast agent from the arteries)
-nursing interventions (post-op):
1. observe the site for bleeding and hematoma
2. assess peripheral pulses on the same ext q
15mins for 4 hours then q 1 – 2 hours
3. evaluate temperature and color of the affected
extremity
4. ask the patient to report signs and symptoms
of arterial insufficiency (pain, numbness
and tingling)
5. monitor for dysrhythmias and vasovagal reaction
*bradycardia >may be
*hypotension precipitated by a
*nausea distended bladder
>prompt interventions:
-raise the feet and
legs
-administer IVF and IV
atropine
6. explain that the patient should be in supine
position for 2 – 6 hours
7. analgesics
8. report chest pain, bleeding and sudden
discomfort
9. increase fluid intake to flush out the dye
10. watch out for orthostatic hypotension
Hemodynamic Monitoring
1. Central Venous Pressure
2. Pulmonary Artery Pressure
3. Intra-arterial BP Monitoring
Central Venous Pressure
-pressure in the vena cava or right atrium is used to:
a. assess right ventricular function
b. venous blood return to the right side of the
heart
-nursing interventions:
a. application of dry, sterile dressing
-should be dry and occlusive
b. chest x-ray to confirm placement
c. daily inspection for signs of infection
(complication)
d. watch out for air embolism (complication)
e. maintenance of the transducer in phlebotactic
axis
*normal range:
0 – 8 mmHg >>> Pressure Monitoring System
3 – 8 cmH2O >> Water Manometer System
Pulmonary Artery Pressure Monitoring
-assessment of left ventricular function
-etiology of shock
-response to vasoactive medications
-can measure:
1. CVP or right atrial pressure
2. pulmonary artery systolic and diastolic
pressure (25/9 mmHg)
3. Mean Pulmonary Artery Pressure (15mmHg)
4. Pulmonary Artery Wedge Pressure
(4.5 to 13 mmHg)
-nursing interventions:
a. Maintenance of the transducer at phlebotactic
axis
b. Watch out for complications:
-infections
-pulmonary artery rupture
-pulmonary thromboembolism
-pulmonary infarction
-catheter kinking
-dysrhythmias
-air embolism
Intra-arterial BP Monitoring
-direct and continuous BP measurements
-ABG measurements
-to obtain blood samples
*after selection of an area (site)>> assess
collateral circulation
a. Allen’s test
b. Doppler test
-nursing interventions:
a. observe asepsis
b. watch out for complications:
-local obstruction with distal ischemia
-external hemorrhage
-massive ecchymosis
-dissection
-air embolism
-blood loss
-pain
-arteriospasm
-infection
Hypertension
-terms related:
>hypertensive emergency
>hypertensive urgency
>rebound hypertension
-types:
a. Primary Hypertension b. Secondary
Hypertension
-BP monitoring:
*normal BP >> recheck in 2 years
*high normal >> recheck in 1 year
*first stage >> confirm in 2 months
*second stage >> confirm in 1 month
*third stage >> confirm immediately
-as a sign
-as a risk factor
-as a disease
-risk factors:
a. smoking d. age older than 60 years
b. dyslipidemia e. gender (men)
c. diabetes mellitus f. family history of CVD
-hypothesis:
a. increased sympathetic activity
b. renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system
c. increased absorption of chloride
d. decreased vasodilation of arterioles
-complications:
a. myocardial infarction
b. heart failure
c. renal failure
d. stroke/ cerebro-vascular accident
e. impaired vision
-gerontologic considerations:
a. accumulation of atherosclerotic plaque
b. fragmentation of arterial elastins
c. increased collagen deposits
d. impaired vasodilatations
-diagnosis:
a. urinalysis f. creatinine clearance
b. blood chemistry g. renin level
c. 12-lead ECG h. 24 hour urine protein
d. chest x-ray
e. echocardiography
-medical management:
a. pharmacologic therapy
b. dietary therapy
-nursing interventions:
a. patient education
>avoid risk factors
>promote healthy lifestyle
Peripheral Arterial Occlusive Disease
-usually involves the segment of the aorta below the
renal artery to the popliteal artery
-risk factors:
a. age (elderly)
b. diabetes mellitus
-clinical manifestations:
a. intermittent claudication
b. coldness or numbness of the affected extremity
c. skin and nail changes
d. ulcerations and gangrene
e. bruits
f. diminished to absent peripheral pulses
g. muscle atrophy
-medical management:
a. pharmacologic therapy
*Pentoxyphylline
-increases RBC flexibility and
decreases blood viscosity
*Cilostazol
-inhibits platelet aggregation
-increases vasodilatation
-inhibits smooth muscle proliferation
*Aspirin, Ticlopidine, Clopidogrel
-antiplatelets
b. surgical management:
vascular grafting
endarterectomy
-nursing management:
a. maintain circulation
*doppler
*pulses
*color q 1 hour x 8 hours
*temperature q 2 hours x
*capillary refill 24 hours
*motor and sensory
b. monitoring for potential complications
*urine output
*CVP & PR
*mental status
*hematoma
c. avoidance of leg crossing or dependency of
the lower extremity
d. reduce edema -elevate the affected
extremity
-exercise
e. stockings
-may not be necessary
Upper Extremity Arterial Occlussive Disease
-due to:
a. atherosclerosis
b. trauma
-clinical management:
a. forearm claudication
b. poor motor function
-diagnosis
a. difference of 20mmHg of BP between 2 arms
b. duplex ultrasonography
c. transcranial doppler evaluation
-management:
a. surgery
*PTA
*carotid to subclavian artery bypass
*axillary to axillary bypass
*autogenous reimplantation of the
subclavian to carotid artery
Aneurism
Aortic Dissection
Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Venous thrombosis
Thrombophlebitis/ Phlebothrombosis
-of unknown cause
-with predisposing factors:
(Virchow’s triad)
A. stasis of blood
>heart failure >vasodilators
>shock >immobility
B. vessel wall injury
>trauma >chemical irritation
C. altered blood coagulation
>abrupt withdrawal from anticoagulants
>OCP
>severe blood dyscrasias
-manifestations:
a. nonspecific
b. phlegmasia cerulea dolens
>massive iliofemoral venous thrombosis
>entire extremity is massively swollen,
tense, painful and cool to touch
*deep vein involvement
-edema of the affected extremity
-affected extremity is warmer to touch
-tenderness
*superficial vein involvement
-pain -redness
-tenderness -warmth
-assessment
a. history
>varicose veins >obese
>hypercoagulation >elderly
>neoplastic disease >OCP
>cardiovascular disease
>recent major surgery
b. physical assessment
-prevention
a. application of elastic compression stockings
b. use of intermittent pneumatic compression
device
c. positioning
d. exercise
-medical management
1. anticoagulation therapy
a. unfractionated heparin
-sc or iv (intermittent infusion) for 5-
7days
-given with Warfarin
-coagulation study monitoring
b. low molecular weight heparin
-with longer half life
-can be used in pregnant women
-less toxic
c. thrombolytic therapy
-alteplase, reteplase, t-PA
streptokinase
-should be given within the first three
-effects less significant after 5 days
-surgical management
>when pharmacologic therapy is contraindicated
a. thrombectomy
b. vena cava filter
-nursing management
a. assessing and monitoring anticoagulant
therapy
b. monitoring and managing potential
complications
>bleeding
>thrombocytopenia
>drug interactions
c. provide comfort
>bed rest
>elevation of the leg
>elastic compression stockings
>analgesics
>application of warm moist packs
d. intermittent pneumatic compression devises
>with 35 to 55 mmHg
e. positioning
>feet higher than the heart
f. exercises
>passive then active exercises
>deep breathing exercises
>early ambulation
*avoid sitting for more than 2 hours
*walking for at least 10minutes every
after 2 hours
Varicose Veins
-abnormally dilated, tortuous, superficial veins
caused by the incompetent venous valves
-may occur in the lower extremities and esophagus
-predisposing factors
>old age
>pregnancy
>prolonged standing
>genetic predisposition
-has 2 types:
a. primary
-without involvement of the deep veins
b. secondary
-resulting from the obstruction of the deep
veins
-manifestations
>dull aches >increased muscle
>muscle cramps fatigue
>ankle edema
>feeling of heaviness
-assessment
a. duplex scan
b. air plethysmography
c. venography
-prevention
a. avoidance of wearing tight socks or
constricting panty girdle
b. avoidance of crossing the thighs
c. avoidance of prolonged standing
d. frequent position changes
e. elevating the affected extremity when tired
f. walking 1 to 2 miles each day
g. using the stairs instead of elevators
h. elastic compression stockings
i. weight reduction planning
-management
>surgery
>sclerotherapy
-with application of elastic compression
bandages for 5 days
Acquired Valvular Disorders
Mitral Valve Prolapse
-usually produces no symptoms
-mostly in women
-mitral valve balloons back into the left atrium during
systole
-signs and symptoms:
-asymptomatic -palpitations
-shortness of breath -syncope
-light headedness -chest pain
-dizziness -anxiety
-diagnosis:
-mitral clicks
-murmur of mitral regurgitations
-medical management:
a. symptomatic
b. elimination of stimulants
c. anti-arrhythmic meds
d. beta blockers/ calcium channel blockers
-nursing management:
a. condition can be genetically transmitted
b. use of prophylactic antibiotics
-for patients with systolic click and a
murmur
c. instruct to avoid stimulants
d. diet, activity and sleep
Mitral Regurgitation
-signs and symptoms:
a. chronic- asymptomatic
b. acute - severe congestive heart failure
dyspnea
fatigue most common symptoms
weakness
palpitations
shortness of breath on exertion
cough
-diagnosis:
a. systolic murmur
b. echocardiography
-medical management:
similar to congestive heart failure
Mitral Stenosis
-causes
rheumatic endocarditis
-signs and symptoms:
>dyspnea on exertion
>fatigue (low cardiac output)
>hemoptysis
>cough
-diagnosis:
>weak pulses
>diastolic murmur
-low pitched rumbling sound at the apex
>echocardiography
>ECG and cardiac catheterization with
angiography
-to determine the severity of mitral stenosis
-medical management:
a. prophylactic antibiotics
b. anticoagulants
c. treatment of CHF
d. surgery
-valvuloplasty
-valve replacement
Aortic Regurgitation
-causes:
>endocarditis
>syphilis
>dissecting aneurism
>deterioration of an aortic valve replacement
-signs and symptoms:
>asymptomatic
>forceful heart beat (head and neck)
exertional dyspnea and fatigue
signs of left ventricular failure
-diagnosis:
>diastolic murmur (high pitched blowing sound)
>widened pulse pressure
>water hammer pulse
>echocardiography, ECG, MRI and cardiac
catheterization
-medical management:
a. antibiotic prophylaxis
b. valvuloplasty or valve replacement
Aortic Stenosis
-cause:
*rheumatic endocarditis
-signs and symptoms:
>asymptomatic
>exertional dyspnea
>dizziness due to left ventricular
failure
>syncope
>chest pain
-diagnosis:
>systolic murmur
-loud, rough
-crescendo-decrescendo
1. Sinus Bradycardia
-causes:
*lower metabolic needs (hypothyroidism, hypothermia,
sleep)
*vagal stimulation (vomiting, suctioning, extreme pain)
*medications (calcium channel blockers, beta blockers)
*increased intracranial pressure
*myocardial infarction
-treatment:
*atropine sulfate
*catecholamines
2. Sinus Tachycardia
-causes:
*acute blood loss *pain
*anemia *hypermetabolic state
*shock *fever
*hypervolemia *anxiety
*hypovolemia *sympathomimetic meds
*congestive heart failure
-decreased diastolic filling
decreased cardiac output
-syncope -acute pulmonary edema
-decreased BP
-management:
a. Ca channel blockers
b. Beta blockers
3. Sinus Arrhythmias
-no significant hemodynamic effects
-not treated usually
Atrial Dysrhythmias
-causes:
>decreased dietary intake of iron
>blood loss
*menorrhagia
*PUD (alcoholics)
-clinical manifestations:
>smooth, sore tongue
>brittle and ridged nails
>angular cheilosis
-diagnosis:
a. BMA
b. serum ferritin/TIBC
c. peripheral blood smear (dec MCV)
d. CBC (dec Hgb and Hct)
-management:
a. Iron supplementation
(Ferrous SO4, Ferrous Fumarate or Ferrous
Gluconate)
-should be taken for 6-12 months
*if oral iron preparation is not tolerated, give
iron dextran (IM or IV)
-Nursing Management:
1. Diet
-should take foods rich in iron
*organ meats *green leafy vegetables
*beans *raisins
-should take foods rich in vitamin C
-take iron with an empty stomach
-if with GI distress, take with food (but absorption
will be decreased by 50%)
-liquid oral iron preparation
Anemia in Renal Disease
-ESRD:
>less likely to develop unless serum creatinine
exceeds 3mg/dl
-Dialysis:
>may lose blood into the dializer >> folic acid
deficiency and iron deficiency
-Management:
1. Recombinant Erythropoietin
>A/R: HPN- may inc Hct by 33-38%
(dose needs to be titrated and administer anti-
HPN)
2. Oral iron and folic acid supplementation
Anemia of Chronic Diseases
-due to chronic disease of inflammation, infection
and/or malignancy
-mild to moderate anemia
-insidious onset over a period of 6-8 weeks
-Hct seldom less than 25%
-Hgb seldom less than 9 g/dl
-erythropoietin levels are low
-moderate shortening of the RBC lifespan
-management:
>no need
>treatment of the underlying cause
Aplastic Anemia
-may lead to pancytopenia
-damage to the BM stem cells
-replacement of the marrow with fat
-also has neutropenia and thrombocytopenia
-forms:
>congenital >idiopathic
>acquired
-clinical manifestations: (insidious onset)
>infection
>anemia
>bruising
-causes:
1. chemicals
-pesticides
-glue
2. medications
-antimicrobials (Chloramphenicol)
-gold compounds
-sulfonamides
-assessment and diagnosis:
1. BMA
-medical management:
1. BM transplant or Peripheral Stem Cell Transplant
2. Immunosuppressive therapy
3. Withdrawal of the offending agent
4. RBC and platelet transfusion
Megaloblastic Anemia
-may lead to pancytopenia
-due to vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Deficiency
(abnormal DNA synthesis)
-Hgb may be as low as 4-5 gm/dl
-WBC count may be as low as 2000-3000/mm3
-platelet count of less than 50000/mm3
-RBC (increase in MCV)
Folic Acid Deficiency
-causes:
*depletion in 4 months time without sufficient
folic acid in the diet (green leafy vegetables and
liver)
*increased folic acid requirement (pregnancy,
alcoholism and chronic blood loss)
Cyanocobalamin deficiency
-causes:
*strict vegetarians (no meat or dairy products)
*absence of intrinsic factor
*faulty absorption in the ileum
Clinical manifestations:
a. Hemolytic s/sx
-unique to vit B12 def
b. GI and Nervous system effects
Assessment and Diagnostic Findings:
a. Schilling Test
-medical management:
a. increase folic acid in the diet and take 1 mg of
folic acid daily (IM for patients with
malabsorption)
b. Vit B12 replacement
-oral supplements
-fortified soy milk
*if with intrinsic factor deficiency and
malabsorption, monthly IM injection of
cyanocobalamin at a dose of 1000ug
-nursing management:
a. mild jaundice
b. vitiligo
c. premature graying of the hair
d. smooth, red and sore tongue
e. unstable gait
f. impaired position and vibration sense
Myelodysplastic Syndrome
-is a group of disorder of myeloid stem cells causing
dysplasia of one or more cell types
-most common feature is the dysplasia of the RBCs
>> macrocytic anemia (WBC & platelets may be
affected)
-may evolve into Acute Myeloid Leukemia
-types:
a. Primary
>more than 80% (elderly)
b. Secondary
-clinical manifestations:
a. variable
-assessment and diagnosis:
a. CBC
>RBC, WBC & platelets are decreased
b. decreased serum erythropoietin
-medical management:
a. bone marrow transplantation
b. blood transfusion (needs chelation of iron)
c. platelet transfusion
d. growth factors (G-CSF)
e. erythropoietin
-nursing management:
1. prevention of infection
2. instructions on the risks of bleeding
*chelation therapy is best administered as a
subcutaneous infusion over 10-12 hours often at
night
*close monitoring of lab values for anticipation of
transfusion and determination of response to
growth factors
Hemolytic Anemias
Sickle Cell Anemia
-a result of inheritance of sickle hemoglobin gene
-sickled Hgb
*crystal formation when exposed to low oxygen
tension, deformed, rigid and sickled RBC >
ischemia & infarction
-sickling process is intermittent (with exposure to low
oxygen tension and cold environment)
-assessment and diagnostic findings
>sickle cell trait:
*normal RBC
*normal WBC
*normal platelets
>sickle cell anemia
*decreased Hct
*sickled cells on smear
-confirmatory test:
Hemoglobin electrophoresis
-clinical manifestations:
*Hgb 7-10mg/dl
*jaundice
*enlargement of the bones of the face and the skull
*tachycardia, cardiac murmurs and enlarged heart
*dysrhythmias and heart failure
*susceptible to infection primarily pneumonia and
osteomyelitis
*chronic hemolysis and thrombosis >> ischemia and
necrosis of organs with slowed circulation (spleen,
lungs and CNS)
-complications:
1. stroke
2. infection
3. renal failure
4. impotence
5. heart failure
6. pulmonary hypertension
Sickle Cell Crisis
-3 types:
1. Very painful sickle cell crisis
> due to tissue hypoxia and necrosis
2. Aplastic crisis
> due to infection of human parvovirus
> Hgb decreases rapidly that the BM cannot
compensate
3. Sequestration Crisis
>pooling of sickled cells in an organ
*spleen >> splenic infarction >>
autosplenectomy
Acute Chest Syndrome
-decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit (rapid)
-fever
-tachycardia
-bilateral chest film infiltrate
-causes: -diagnostic tests:
*infection *CXR
*fat embolism *incentive spirometry
-treatment: *bronchoscopy
*antibiotics *phospholipase A2 det
*fluid restriction
*corticosteroid
*transfusion
>decreases phospholipase A2
-prognosis:
>usually diagnosed during childhood
-medical management:
>3 treatment modalities:
a. BM transplantation
b. Hydroxyurea
*increases the concentration of fetal Hgb
*decreases vaso-occlusive crisis
c. Long term RBC transfusion
Adverse Effects of Hydroxyurea
1. chronic suppression of WBC formation
2. teratogenesis
3. potential for later development of pregnancy
Complications of Transfusion
1. Iron Overload
-needs chelation therapy
2. poor venous access
3. alloimmunization due to repeated transfusion
*exchange transfusion
Treatment:
1. Supportive
>pain management
*folic acid supplementation
2. Prompt use of antibiotics
-nursing diagnosis:
1. Pain related to tissue hypoxia
2. Risk for infection
3. Powerlessness related to illness induced
powerlessness
4. Knowledge deficit regarding prevention of crisis
-goals:
1. Relief of pain
2. Decreased incidence of crisis
3. Enhanced self esteem and power
4. Absence of complications
-nursing interventions:
1. Management of pain
2. preventing and managing infections
3. promoting coping skills
4. Minimizing knowledge deficit
5. Monitoring and managing potential complications
-leg ulcers
-priapism leading to impotence
-chronic pain and substance abuse
Thalassemias
1. Silent Carrier
-asymptomatic
-deletion of a single alpha globin gene
-barely detectable reduction in alpha globin gene
synthesis
2. Alpha Thalassemia Trait
-deletion of 2 globin gene
-minimal or no anemia and no abnormal physical
signs
3. Hemoglobin H Disease
-deletion of the 3 out of 4 alpha globin gene
-hemoglobin H has extremely high O2 affinity
and therefore not useful for O2 exchange
-with moderately severe anemia
4. Hydrops fetalis
-most severe form
-deletion of the 4 alpha globin gene
-in the fetus > gamma globin chains in excess
form tetramers (hemoglobin Bart) > extremely
increased oxygen affinity > unable to deliver
oxygen to the tissues > severe anoxia
Beta Thalassemia
Clinical Syndromes:
1. Thalassemia Major
-lead to severe transfusion dependent anemia
-severe anemia and first become manifested 6-
9mos after birth (hemoglobin synthesis switches
from HgbF to HgbA)
-if untransfused, Hgb may range between 3-
6gm/dl (with marked anisocytosis and microcytic,
hypochromic anemia)
-aggregated alpha chains are taken up by the spleen
-increased reticulocytes but erythropoiesis is
ineffective
-clinical course:
short or brief because of death at an early age
2. Thalassemia Minor
-resistant against falcifarum malaria
-asymptomatic and anemia is mild if present
G6PD Deficiency
(G6PD is essential for membrane stability)
-would result to chronic hemolytic anemia
-hemolysis only when under stress, infection or due
to the use of certain medications (oxidant
drugs)
-inherited as X-linked disease
-oxidant drugs:
>anti-malarial agents
>sulfonamides
>nitrofurantoin
>analgesics (ASA, Phenacetin)
>thiazides
>chloramphenicol
>para-amino-salisylic acid
>vitamin K
-clinical manifestations:
>s/sx of hemolysis
*reticulocytosis *jaundice
*hemoglobinuria *pallor
-presence of Heinz bodies (taken up by the
spleen)
-assessment and diagnostic findings:
>qualitative assay for G6PD
-medical management:
a. withdrawal of the offending agent
b. transfusion
-only in severe hemolytic states
c. health education
-avoid triggering factors
Hereditary Spherocytosis
-Is also a type of hemolytic anemia
-Abnormal permeability of RBC membrane >
spherocytosis > taken up by the liver > hemolysis
-treatment:
>surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy)
Immune Hemolytic Anemia
-due to exposure of RBCs to antibodies
formation of alloantibodies
destruction of RBCs
(intravascular hemolysis)
-usually result from hemolytic transfusion reactions
-RBCs may be destroyed also because of poor level
of suppressor lymphocytes > antibody formation
(IgG)
-2 types:
1. warm body antibodies
>bind to RBCs most active in warm conditions
>most common (IgG usually but sometimes IgA)
>mostly extravascular
2. Cold-body Antibodies
>react in cold environment
>usually IgM
>usually occur acutely during recovery from viral
infections, chronically with lymphoproliferative
disorder
>self limited intravascular hemolysis
-clinical manifestations:
(variable depending on the severity)
a. splenomegaly in 80% of cases
b. hepatomegaly
c. lymphadenopathy
d. jaundice
-assessment and diagnostic findings:
a. CBC
-decreased Hgb and Hct
b. peripheral blood smear
-increased reticulocytes
c. serum chemistry
-increased serum bilirubin
-medical management:
a. withdrawal of the offending agent
b. increased doses of corticosteroids (1
mg/kg/day)
c. blood transfusions
-slowly and cautiously (10-15ml for 20-
30mins)
d. splenectomy
e. immunosuppressive therapy
-if splenectomy and steroids fail
-cyclophosphamide (more rapid effect but
more toxic)
-azathioprine (less rapid effect but less
toxic)
f. Immunoglobulin administration
-nursing management:
a. prevention of infection
*after splenectomy; during steroid and
immunosuppressive therapy
Hereditary Hemochromatosis
-deposition of excessive iron in the liver,
myocardium, testes, thyroid and pancreas
-women are less affected than men
-signs and symptoms:
a. weakness
b. lethargy
c. arthralgia
d. weight loss
e. loss of libido
f. skin hyperpigmentation
g. cardiac dysrrhythmias and cardiomyopathy >
edema and dyspnea
h. endocrine involvement
*hypothyroidism *diminished libido
*hypogonadism
may lead to Hepatocellular Carcinoma
-diagnosis:
a. liver biopsy
-definitive test
-medical management:
a. therapeutic phlebotomy
-removing whole blood from a vein
-every 1–3 year period
-nursing management:
a. diet low in iron is not that important
b. prevent liver injury such as alcoholism
c. alpha feto-protein determination
-serial screening test for hepatoma
d. monitor for signs and symptoms of organ
dysfunction
Polycythemia
Polycythemia Vera or Primary Polycythemia
>blurred vision
>angina
>claudication due to increased blood
>dyspnea viscosity
>thrombophlebitis
>erythromyalgia - burning sensation of the
fingers and toes
-assessment and diagnostic findings:
1. increased RBC mass (nuclear medicine
procedure)
-normal in erythropoietin
2. normal oxygen saturation level
3. enlarged spleen
-other signs:
1. increased WBC and Platelet count
2. increased vitamin B12
3. increased alkaline phosphatase
-complication
1. thrombosis - may lead to stroke or MI
2. bleeding
-medical management:
1. therapeutic phlebotomy
>500ml once or twice weekly
>to reduce the blood cell mass
2. radioactive phosphorus
>to suppress marrow function but may
increase the risk of leukemia
-nursing management:
1. patient education
>avoid Aspirin to decrease the risk
>minimize alcohol of bleeding
>cool or tepid water bath
-for itchiness
-antihistamines are not effective
Secondary Polycythemia
-due to excessive production of erythropoietin
as a reaction to:
>smoking
>COPD
>cyanotic heart disease
>increased altitude
-medical management:
1. Therapeutic Phlebotomy
Leukopenia and Neutropenia
-may result from:
*ionizing radiation
*long term use of steroids
*uremia
*neoplasms
-diagnosis:
Absolute Neutrophil Count
= % neutrophils + % bands X total WBC count
100
-clinical manifestations:
infections
-medical management:
1. withdrawal of the offending agent
2. corticosteroids
3. withholding or decreasing the dose of chemotherapy
or radiotherapy
4. culture of blood, urine and sputum; CXR > monitoring
-nursing management:
1. infection control
Bleeding Disorder
-vascular in origin >> localized
-platelets or coagulation factor defects >>
widespread
Primary Thrombocythemia
respiratory arrest
-management:
a. correct the underlying cause
b. restore adequate gas exchange (ET with
ventilator)
surfactant replacement therapy
antiseptic agents
antioxidant therapy
corticosteroids
c. nutritional therapy
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
*diaphoresis *hypoxemia
*tachycardia *central cyanosis
*widened pulse pressure
-types according to severity:
A. Mild Intermittent
-symptoms <2 times a week
-asymptomatic and normal PEF between
exacerbations
-exacerbations are brief; intensity may vary
-night time symptoms <2 times a month
B. Mild persistent
-symptoms >2 times a week but <1 time a day
-exacerbations may affect activity
-night time symptoms >2 times a month
C. Moderate Persistent
-daily symptoms
-daily use of inhaled short acting beta2 agonist
-exacerbations affect activity
-exacerbations >2 times a week; may last days
-night time symptoms >1 time a week
D. Severe Persistent
-continual symptoms
-limited physical activity
-frequent exacerbations
-frequent night time symptoms
-assessment and diagnostics:
*clinical history and physical assessment
*sputum/blood tests
>eosinophilia
*serology
>elevated IgE
*ABG
>hypoxemia
>hypocapnia then hypercapnia
*pulse oximetry
>hypoxemia
-prevention:
a. identificaton and avoidance of allergens
-complications:
a. status asthmaticus
b. respiratory failure
c. pneumonia
d. atelectasis
-medical management:
a. Long Acting Medications
*corticosteroids
-most potent and effective
-inhaled preparations commonly causes
oral thrush
-fluticasone, beclomethasone,
budesonide
*mast cell stabilizer
-for mild to moderate asthma only
(prophylaxis)
- cromolyn sodium and nedocromil
*beta 2 agonist
-to control symptoms especially at night
-prophylaxis of exercise induced asthma
-salmeterol, albuterol, formoterol
*methylxanthines
-mild to moderate bronchodilator
-mainly for the relief of night time sx
(theophylline as mild anti-inflammatory)
*leukotriene modifiers (inhibitors)
-may be added or be used as an
alternative to inhaled corticosteroids
-zafirlukast, montelukast, zileuton
B. Quick Relief Medications
*short acting beta 2 agonist
-to relieve acute symptoms
-to prevent exercise induced asthma
-may be combined with an
anticholinergic
-salbutamol, combivent
(salbutamol+ipratropium bromide)
>management of asthma exacerbation
-early treatment and education of the patient
*quick relief medications
*corticosteroids
*O2 inhalation
*serial measurement of lung function
-peak flow meter (FEV)
Status Asthmaticus
-severe and persistent asthma that does not
respond to conventional therapy
-may last longer than 24 hours
-causes:
*infection *dehydration
*anxiety *inc adrenergic blockage
*nebulizer abuse *irritants (aspirin)
-pathophysiology:
similar to bronchial asthma
*hypoxemia and respiratory alkalosis >>> respiratory
acidosis
-signs and symptoms:
similar to asthma
(extent of wheezing does not indicate the severity of
attack)
-assessment and diagnosis:
*pulmonary function study
-most accurate
*ABG
-respiratory alkalosis (most frequent finding)
-medical management:
*short acting beta adrenergic agonist and steroid
*O2 inhalation
*IVF
*mechanical ventilation
Bronchiectasis
-is a chronic irreversible dilation of the bronchi and
bronchioles
-causes:
*airway obstruction
*diffuse airway injury
*pulmonary infections and complications
*genetic disorders (cystic fibrosis)
*abnormal host defense (ciliary dyskinesia)
*idiopathic causes
-pathophysiology:
chronic airway inflammation
bronchial wall damage
bronchial obstruction
(due to thick sputum)
bronchial distention and distortion
(localized; segmental/lobar-lower lobes usually)
inflammation of the peribronchial tissues
alveolar collapse
pulmonary scarring/fibrosis
-signs and symptoms:
*chronic cough
*excessive production of purulent sputum
*hemoptysis
*clubbing of the fingers
*repeated pulmonary infections
-assessment and diagnosis:
*history and physical assessment
-prolonged history of productive cough
*sputum exam
-consistently negative for tubercle bacilli
*CT scan
-bronchial dilatation
-medical management:
a. bronchial drainage
-to clear excessive secretions
-to prevent or control infection
*postural drainage
*bronchodilators
*bronchoscopy
*chest physiotherapy
b. smoking cessation
c. infection control
-antimicrobial therapy (year round)
-vaccination (influenza and pneumococcal
pneumonia)
d. surgery
-for patients who continue to expectorate large
volume of phlegm
-for patients with repeated bouts of pneumonia
and hemoptysis
*segmental resection
*lobectomy
*pneumonectomy
-complications:
*atelectasis *bronchopleural fistula
*pneumonia *empyema
-nursing management:
a. supportive and symptomatic
b. assistance to clear secretions
c. patient education
-smoking cessation
-infection prevention
-postural drainage
-activity/rest
-nutrition
Pulmonary Edema
-abnormal accumulation of fluids in the lung tissue
and/or alveolar space
-a severe, life threatening condition
-causes:
*left ventricular failure
*hypervolemia
*sudden increase in the intravascular pressure in
the lungs (post operative pneumonectomy)
>flash pulmonary edema
*rapid re-inflation of the lungs after the
removal of air from a pneumothorax or
evacuation of fluid from a large pleural
effusion
>re-expansion pulmonary edema
-signs and symptoms:
>increasing respiratory distress
-dyspnea -central cyanosis
-hunger -confusion/stupor
>foamy, frothy, and often blood tinged
secretions
-assessment and diagnostic findings:
a. physical examination
>crackles
-initially in the base and posterior part of the
lungs
-progress toward the apices
>tachycardia
b. chest x-ray
>increased interstitial markings
c. pulse oximetry
d. arterial blood gas determination
-medical management:
a. correction of the underlying cause
b. vasodilators
c. inotropic agents
d. afterload or preload agents
e. contractility meds
f. diuretics and fluid restriction
g. oxygenation and mechanical ventilation
h. morphine
-nursing management:
supportive to the medical management
Pulmonary Hypertension
-systolic pulmonary artery pressure exceeding 30mmHg
-mean pulmonary artery pressure exceeding 25mmHg
-2 Types:
1. Primary Pulmonary Hypertension
-with no evidence of pulmonary or cardiac
disease or pulmonary embolism
-more common in women 20-40 y/o
-high mortality within 5 years of diagnosis
2. Secondary Pulmonary Hypertension
-more common
-secondary to existing cardiac and pulmonary
disease (hypoxemia)
-
Hypoxemia Hypercapnia Pulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary Artery Constriction
Increased Pulmonary Vascular resistance
Increased Right Ventricular Workload
Right Ventricular Hypertrophy
Right Ventricular Failure
-signs and symptoms:
*dyspnea
-main symptom initially with exertion then
eventually at rest
*substernal chest pain
*weakness *syncope
*fatigue *occasional hemoptysis
*right sided heart failure
-peripheral edema, ascites, neck vein
engorgement, liver engorgement,
crackles
-assessment and diagnosis:
*clinical history and physical examination
*CXR
*pulmonary function studies
-normal, or slight decrease in VC and
compliance
-mild decrease in diffusing capacity
*electrocardiogram
-right ventricular hypertrophy
-right axis deviation
-tall peaked T waves (inferior leads)
-tall R waves, ST segment depression, T wave
inversion (anterior leads)
*echocardiogram
-can assess the progression of the disease
*ventilation perfusion scan
-defects in the pulmonary vasculature such
as pulmonary emboli
*cardiac catheterization
-elevated pulmonary arterial pressure
*lung biopsy
-through thoracotomy or thoracoscopy
-medical management:
Goal:
1. to manage the underlying cardiac or
pulmonary condition
A. Supplemental Oxygen
-reverses vasoconstriction
-reduces pulmonary hypertension
B. Pulmonary Vasodilators
(calcium channel blockers, IV prostacyclin)
-reduces pulmonary vascular resistance
-increases the cardiac output
C. Anticoagulants if with cor
D. Fluid Restriction pulmonale
E. Diuretics
F. Cardiac Glycosides
G. Heart-Lung Transplantation
-nursing management:
1. identify high risk patients
-COPD, pulmonary emboli, congenital heart
disease, mitral valve disease
2. monitor s/sx
3. administer oxygen therapy appropriately
4. home use oxygen supplementation
Cor pulmonale
-characterized by:
a. right ventricular enlargement
b. pulmonary congestion
-causes:
a. COPD
-most frequent
b. deformities of the thoracic cage
c. massive obesity
d. primary embolism
e. disorders of the nervous system
f. disorders of the respiratory muscles
g. disorders of the chest wall
h. disorders of the pulmonary arterial tree
Lung Disease
Hypoxemia and Hypercapnia
Pulmonary Hypertension
Increased Work Load to the Right Ventricles
Right Sided Heart Enlargement
Right Sided Heart Failure
-signs and symptoms:
*s/sx of the underlying pulmonary disease
*s/sx of right sided heart failure
-management:
goals:
1. improvement of ventilation
2. treatment of the underlying lung disease
3. treatment of the manifestations of the heart
A. Continuous 24 Hour O2 Therapy
-improvement may require 4-6weeks
of O2 therapy
-monitor pulse oximetry and ABG
B. Chest Physiotherapy and Bronchial
Hygiene Maneuvers
C. Bronchodilators
D. ET Intubation and Mechanical
Ventilation
E. Bed Rest
F. Sodium Restriction
G. Diuretic Therapy
H. Digitalis Therapy
I. ECG Monitoring
-nursing management:
*supportive to the medical management
Pulmonary Embolism
-obstruction of the pulmonary artery or one of its
branches by a thrombus or thrombi
-causes:
*venous thrombosis
*atrial fibrillation
Occlusion of the Pulmonary Artery
Increased Alveolar Dead Space
Ventilation/Perfusion Imbalance
Hypoxemia and Hypercapnia
Pulmonary Hypertension
Right Ventricular Failure
Shock
-signs and symptoms:
*dyspnea
-most frequent symptom
*tachypnea
-most frequent sign
*chest pain
-sudden and pleuritic
-mimics angina pectoris
*anxiety, fever, tachycardia, apprehension, cough,
diaphoresis, hemoptysis, syncope
-less than 10% progresses to pulmonary infarction
-assessment and diagnosis:
a. Ventilation Perfusion Scan (test of choice)
b. Pulmonary Angiography (gold standard)
c. CXR
-infiltrates
-atelectasis
-pleural effusion
-elevation of the diaphragm
d. ECG
-sinus tachycardia
-PR interval progression
-non specific T wave changes
e. Peripheral Vascular Studies
f. ABG
-prevention:
*prevention of DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS
-management:
a. Emergency Management
*Nasal O2 Therapy
*IV access
*Perfusion Scan, ABG, Hemodynamic
Measurements
*Dobutamine or Dopamine
*ECG
*Digitalis Glycosides, IV Diuretics and Anti-
arrhythmics when appropriate
*Blood Studies
*ET Intubation and Mechanical Ventilation
*Indwelling Urinary Catheter Insertion
*Small Doses of Sedatives or Morphine
b. General Management
*O2 therapy
*elastic compression stockings
*intermittent pneumatic leg compression
*elevation of the leg
c. Pharmacologic Management
*Anticoagulation Therapy
Heparin (IV bolus of 5T to 10T “U”
then infusion of 18U/kg/hour not to
exceed 600U/hour)
Warfarin (begun within 24 hours after
initiating Heparin therapy)
*Thrombolytic Therapy
Urokinase, Streptokinase, Alteplase
CI: CVA w/in the past 2 months
active bleeding w/in the past 10
days
recent labor & delivery
severe hypertension
d. Surgical Management:
*embolectomy
*interruption of the inferior vena cava
Teflon clips
-nursing management:
a. Minimizing the risk of pulmonary embolism
b. Preventing thrombus formation
c. Assessing for potential pulmonary embolism
d. Monitoring thrombolytic therapy
e. managing pain
f. managing O2 therapy
g. relieving anxiety
h. monitoring for complications
i. post op nursing care
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
-is caused by an absent or markedly inadequate
amount of insulin
-results in disorder in the metabolism of
carbohydrate, protein and fat
-3 main clinical features of DKA:
*hyperglycemia
*dehydration and electrolyte loss
*acidosis
-assessment and diagnostic findings:
*blood glucose level
-300 to 800 mg/dl
*serum bicarbonate
-0-15mEq/L
*serum pH
-low: 6.8-7.3
*PCO2
-low: 10-30mmHg
-reflects respiratory compensation for
acidosis
*ketone bodies
-elevated in the blood and in the urine
*electrolyte depletion
*BUN, creatinine, hgb and hct
-elevated due to water loss
-lack of insulin -decreased utilization
increased breakdown of fat of glucose by muscle,
increased fatty acids fat and liver
increased ketone bodies -increased production
-acetone breath of glucose by liver
-poor appetite hyperglycemia
-nausea
Diet High Na, CHON, Low Na, CHO, fats but high
CHO intake except K CHON and K intake
Hyperthyroidism (Thyroid Hypothyroidism (Myxedema
Crisis) Coma)
Grave’s Disease; inc. amt. of Dec. T3T4; causes in adult –
T3&T4 myxedema, child cretinism
Inc. appetite – wt. loss due to Dec. appetite – wt. gain due to
inc. metabolism, heat decreased. metabolism, all VS
intolerance, all VS increase, decrease, decreased
exopthalmos-pathognomonic menstruation
symptom, amenorrhea
Inc. caloric diet; watch out for Dec. caloric diet, force fluid
thyrotoxicosis (triad):
b. Tachycardia
c. Hyperthermia
d. agitation