Findings to Watch for in Individuals with History of Dilated Cardiomyopathy-2

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding findings to watch for and report with dilated cardiomyopathy as follows: Worsening pedal edema: Persistent back-up of fluid in the heart chambers can lead to increased workload on the heart, progressive deterioration of heart function, further weakening of heart muscle, and heart failure. Individuals can present with swelling of the lower legs, with pitting upon applying slight pressure. The severity of pitting increases with severity of cardiomyopathy. Keep a close watch [...]

Findings to Watch for in Individuals with History of Dilated Cardiomyopathy-1

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding findings to watch for and report with dilated cardiomyopathy as follows: Blood pressure: 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. 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 [...]

Signs and Symptoms of Dilated Cardiomyopathy-2

Patient/caregiver was educated that signs and symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy can vary from mild to severe depending on the degree to which heart muscle is affected, compromised output of blood due to poor cardiac contractions, and the extent of vital organ compromise. Patient/caregiver was educated regarding signs and symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy as follows: Palpitations and arrhythmia Damaged heart muscle, secondary to poor blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscle, can lead to palpitations [...]

Nurse Teaching on Signs and Symptoms of Dilated Cardiomyopathy-1

Patient/caregiver was educated that signs and symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy can vary from mild to severe depending on the degree to which heart muscle is affected, compromised output of blood due to poor cardiac contractions, and the extent of vital organ compromise. Patient/caregiver was educated regarding signs and symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy as follows: Hypotension Reduced output of blood from the heart due to cardiomyopathy can result in low blood pressure and hypotensive symptoms of [...]

Risk Factors for Development of Dilated Cardiomyopathy-2

Patient/caregiver was instructed that damage and alteration to the cardiac muscle is the central element for development of cardiomyopathy. The risk factors and causes for damage and alteration to the cardiac muscle could vary as follows: History of heart attack: Individuals with history of heart attack present with damaged heart muscle. The extent of damage can be proportional to the severity of the attack suffered. Damaged heart muscle can result in ineffective contractions, thus rendering [...]