Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding complications of congestive heart failure as follows:
- Hypotension: Reduced output of blood from the heart can result in low blood volume in circulation, low blood pressure, and hypotensive symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness. Also, reduced blood supply to brain, secondary to hypotension and reduced output from heart, can contribute to altered level of consciousness. Eventually, this increase risk for falls and accidents.
- Compromised end organ function: Progressively reduced blood supply to the end organs, such as, brain, heart, lung, stomach, and kidneys, can result in deterioration of overall function of these organs. Individuals with history of stroke, renal failure, and heart attack, can be at increased risk for symptoms of compromised organ function.
- Exacerbation of SOB: Reduced supply of oxygenated blood to the lungs can result in poor oxygen pick-up and increased dyspnea. Also, fluid back-up into the lungs can lead to fluid retention in the chest, difficulty in gas exchange in the lungs, and exacerbation of shortness of breath.
