Pathophysiology of Left-sided Heart Failure

Patient/caregiver was educated on pathophysiology of left-sided heart failure as follows: Left side of the heart receives oxygen rich blood from the lungs and pumps this blood to the vital organs of the body through the general circulation. Strong contractions of the chambers on the left heart are needed for effective pumping of oxygen rich blood to the tissues. Damaged muscle on left side of heart, secondary to various factors, cannot contract effectively, contributing to [...]

Life-style Measures to be Observed by Individuals with Systolic Heart Failure-3

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding life-style measures to be observed with systolic heart failure as follows: Observe compliance with recommendations for limitations on alcohol consumption, if applicable. Individuals with history of co-existing diabetes must observe compliance with dietary intake and calorie recommendations made. Observe compliance with close watch on blood sugars and medications intake, as ordered. Report to your physician regarding consistent blood sugar readings, out of parameters defined. Be aware of signs and symptoms of [...]

Life-style Measures to be Observed by Individuals with Systolic Heart Failure-2

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding life-style measures to be observed with systolic heart failure as follows: Fluid back-up and edema due to heart failure can contribute to acute weight gain. Observe compliance with log maintenance of everyday weight recording. Any acute increase of weight, more than 2 pounds in 2 consecutive days or more than 5 pounds in one-week duration, indicates significant fluid retention and deteriorating cardiac function, and must be reported to the physician. Fluid [...]

Life-style Measures to be Observed by Individuals with Systolic Heart Failure-1

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding life-style measures to be observed with systolic heart failure as follows: Reduced output of blood from the heart, in individuals with systolic heart failure, can result in low blood pressure and hypotensive symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness. Observe compliance with log maintenance of everyday blood pressure and heart rate readings. Report to your physician regarding any consistent systolic readings below 90 and above 160. Report consistent diastolic readings below 60 and [...]

Complications of Systolic Heart Failure-3

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding complications of systolic heart failure as follows: Arrhythmia: Damaged heart muscle, secondary to poor blood and oxygen supply, can lead to palpitations and arrhythmias. Individuals with history of arrhythmia can be at increased risk for presentation with fluttering in the chest, abnormal heartbeat, poorly felt pulse, dizziness, chest pain, altered levels of consciousness, and fainting. Blood clot formation: Compromised heart function with fluid back-up, in individuals with heart failure, can increase [...]