Lipp Vis Nursing ChaptLWBK1630_C02_p013-068

40  Chapter 2 • Cardiovascular Care

TIP: Valvular insufficiency is also known as regurgitation, incompe- tence, or a leaky valve.

Nursing Considerations • Stress the importance of adequate rest. Assist with bathing if

necessary. Provide a bedside commode because using a

commode puts less stress on the heart than using a bedpan. Offer the patient diversionary, physically undemanding activities. • Alternate periods of activity with periods of rest to prevent extreme fatigue and dyspnea. • To reduce anxiety, allow the patient to express his concerns about the effects of activity restrictions on his responsibilities and routines. • Keep the patient’s legs elevated while he sits in a chair to improve venous return to the heart. • Place the patient in an upright position to relieve dyspnea, if necessary, and administer oxygen to prevent tissue hypoxia. • Maintain the patient on a low- sodium diet. • Monitor the patient for signs of HF, pulmonary edema, and adverse reactions to drug therapy.

PICTURING PATHO Teaching About Valvular Disease • Advise the patient to plan for periodic rest in his daily routine to prevent undue fatigue. • Teach the patient about diet

develops a rash, fever, chills, or other signs or symptoms of allergy at any time taking antibiotics.

• Instruct the patient and his family to watch for and report early signs and symptoms of HF, such as dyspnea and a hacking, nonproductive cough. • Teach the patient about diet reported, and the importance of consistent follow-up care. • Make sure the patient and family understand the need to comply with prolonged antibiotic therapy and follow-up care. • Make sure the patient and family understand the need for an additional antibiotic during dental or other surgical procedures. restrictions, medications, symptoms that should be

restrictions, medications, symptoms that should be

reported, and the importance of consistent follow-up care. • Tell the patient to elevate his legs whenever he sits. • Explain all tests and treatments. • Make sure the patient and his family understand the need to comply with prolonged antibiotic therapy and follow-up care, and the need for an additional antibiotic during dental procedures. • Tell the patient to stop medications immediately and notify the physician if he