Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding complications of aortic regurgitation as follows: Hypotension: Reduced output of blood from the heart will result in 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. Exacerbation of SOB: Reduced output of oxygenated blood from the heart will result in reduced [...]

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding measures to prevent worsening of aortic regurgitation as follows: Observe compliance with intake of anti-arrhythmic medications. Keep a close watch and report to your physician regarding any worsening signs and symptoms of arrhythmia, such as, fluttering in the chest, racing or abnormally slow heartbeat, poorly felt pulse, dizziness, any episodes of loss of consciousness, chest pain and/or discomfort, and altered levels of consciousness. Be aware of risk factors for clot formation, [...]

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding measures to prevent worsening of aortic regurgitation as follows: 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 above 90. Report any consistent heart rate readings below 55 and above 100. Observe compliance with all cardiac medications, as prescribed. Observe compliance with recommendations for heart healthy [...]

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding findings to watch for and report with aortic regurgitation as follows: Compromised renal function: Progressively reduced blood supply to the kidneys can result in deterioration of renal function, diminished urine output, increased fluid and waste retention, and 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. Try peeing into an urinal and [...]

Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding findings to watch for and report with aortic regurgitation as follows: Worsening pedal edema: Persistent back-up of fluid in the heart chambers can lead to progressive deterioration of heart function, enlargement of the heart, 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 heart failure. Keep a close watch on [...]