Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding life-style measures to be observed with aortic stenosis as follows:
- Be aware of signs and symptoms of clot and emboli formation, such as, acute dry cough, sudden chest pain with exacerbation of shortness of breath, acute calf pain with swelling of the lower limb, and dizziness. Observe compliance with recommendations for smoking cessation, if applicable. Observe compliance with intake of blood thinner and anticoagulant medications, if any ordered. Observe compliance with periodical lab draws, as ordered, for any changes to be made in the dose of anticoagulant medications.
- Reduced blood supply to the kidneys can result in deterioration of renal function, diminished urine output, increased fluid and waste retention, and in severe cases, even renal failure. Diminished urine output with increased fluid retention can result in acute weight gain and increased load on already failing heart, which can further complicate the outcome. Keep a close watch on urine output, by peeing into an urinal and keep a record of volume of urine being emptied, each time the urinal is emptied. Calculate the total volume of urine emptied in a 24-hour interval. Report to your physician regarding any progressively decreasing volume of urine output. Observe compliance with recommendations made for renal diet and fluid volume intake limitations, if any.
- Reduced blood supply to brain and muscles can result in increased confusion, frequency of dizzy episodes, muscle pain, fatigue, and reduced endurance to activity, thus contributing to falls and accidents. Observe compliance with use of assistive device for fall and accident prevention. Seek therapy assistance for planned and safe execution of activities. Always, seek for caregiver assistance, as needed.
