Patient/caregiver was educated upon signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure as follows:
- Hypotension
- Increased back-up with retention of blood in the heart chambers can reduce the volume of blood in the circulation, resulting in low blood pressure.
- Diminished function of vital organs
- Damaged heart muscle cannot contract effectively. Ineffective and poor contractions of heart result in inability of heart chambers to pump adequate blood to the circulation and vital organs.
- Compromised blood and oxygen supply to the vital organs affect their function gradually. Blood supply could be reduced to all organs, such as, brain, heart, lung, stomach, and kidneys, affecting their function.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Hypotension with poor volume in circulation can result in dizziness and lightheadedness.
- Reduced blood flow to the head and brain can result in blurred vision, dizziness, and lightheadedness, with serious risk for fall and accidents. Some severe cases can present as a stroke.
