Nursing 4400A/B Lecture 12: Week 12 Reading Notes
16 Dec 2015
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Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the lungs can be interstitial or in alveoli. Usually a result of myocardial scarring on the left ventricle causing a decreased contractibility and thus a backup of fluid into pulmonary circulation. Can also be causes by renal, liver, and oncologic disorder that lead to fluid retention. As a result of decreased cerebral circulation, the patient will present withrestlessness and anxiety; sob, cold/clamy hands, cyanotic nailbeds/lips, ashen pallor to skin, bloody sputum, increased hr, and decreased spo2 are all additional symptoms to look for. Eventually fluid will back up to rest of body and edema in limbs will occur. Chest x-ray and auscultation (looking for crackles) is key to diagnosis. To prevent it in early stages, you can put the patient in an upright position with legs dependent, limit over exertion, and minimize emotional stimuli. Nursing interventions include: positioning client in upright position, providing support for patient in family in reducing anxiety, monitoring meds and vs.
