Treatments for Tachycardia
Treatments for Tachycardia
The list of treatments mentioned in various sources
for Tachycardia
includes the following list.
Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment
or change in treatment plans.
Tachycardia: Is the Diagnosis Correct?
The first step in getting correct treatment is
to get a correct diagnosis.
Differential diagnosis list for Tachycardia may include:
Hidden causes of Tachycardia may be incorrectly diagnosed:
- Normal heart rate increase as response to various situations:
- more causes...»
Tachycardia: Marketplace Products, Discounts & Offers
Products, offers and promotion categories available for Tachycardia:
Tachycardia: Research Doctors & Specialists
Research all specialists including ratings, affiliations, and sanctions.
Drugs and Medications used to treat Tachycardia:
Note:You must always seek professional medical advice about any prescription drug, OTC drug, medication, treatment
or change in treatment plans.
Some of the different medications used in the treatment of Tachycardia include:
Hospital statistics for Tachycardia:
These medical statistics relate to hospitals, hospitalization and Tachycardia:
- 0.143% (18,285) of hospital consultant episodes were for paroxysmal tachycardia in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
- 79% of hospital consultant episodes for paroxysmal tachycardia required hospital admission in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
- 51% of hospital consultant episodes for paroxysmal tachycardia were for men in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
- 49% of hospital consultant episodes for paroxysmal tachycardia were for women in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
- 74% of hospital consultant episodes for paroxysmal tachycardia required emergency hospital admission in England 2002-03 (Hospital Episode Statistics, Department of Health, England, 2002-03)
- more hospital information...»
Hospitals & Medical Clinics: Tachycardia
Research quality ratings and patient incidents/safety measures
for hospitals and medical facilities in specialties related to Tachycardia:
Hospital & Clinic quality ratings » »
Choosing the Best Treatment Hospital:
More general information, not necessarily in relation to Tachycardia,
on hospital and medical facility performance and surgical care quality:
Buy Products Related to Treatments for Tachycardia
Book Excerpts: Treatment of Tachycardia
Treatments of Tachycardia: Online Medical Books
16 MEDICAL BOOKS ONLINE!
Review excerpts from medical books online, free, without registration,
for more information about the treatments of Tachycardia.
Palpitations:
Treatment
(In a Page: Signs and Symptoms)
-
Attention to airway, breathing, and circulation
-
Treat the underlying cause
-
Discontinue offending drugs
-
Anxiolytics may be needed for significant anxiety
-
Administer adenosine, amiodarone and/or other antiarrhythmics, β-blockers, diltiazem, digoxin as indicated for rate control, suppression, or cardioversion
-
Electrophysiologic intervention (radiofrequency ablation of re-entrant pathway) may be necessary for symptomatic patients
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In a Page: Signs and Symptoms, 2004
Tachycardia:
Treatment
(In a Page: Signs and Symptoms)
- Ventricular tachycardia must be treated emergently
–Unstable VT with hypotension or cardiac ischemia
requires immediate cardioversion
–IV amiodarone or lidocaine if cardioversion fails
–Stable VT should be treated initially with antiarrhythmic
medications (e.g., IV amiodarone, lidocaine, procainamide), correction of electrolyte abnormalities, and/or IV magnesium; cardiovert if there is no response
- Supraventricular tachycardias
–Control rate, terminate rhythm, prevent recurrence
–Vagal maneuvers (e.g., carotid sinus massage) to
transiently block AV node may be useful (avoid in elderly, carotid bruits, or known carotid artery stenosis)
–Medications include AV nodal blocking drugs (e.g., β-blockers): Slow conduction to ventricles;
antiarrhythmics terminate rhythm, prevent recurrence
–Cardioversion is reserved for symptomatic patients
–Radiofrequency ablation is more definitive means of
terminating arrhythmias and preventing recurrences
>
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In a Page: Signs and Symptoms, 2004
Murmurs - Diastolic:
Treatment
(In a Page: Signs and Symptoms)
-
Attention to hemodynamic status
-
Treat the underlying cause (e.g., anemia, infection, hyperthyroidism, MI)
-
Serial examinations to track progression of underlying cause
-
Valve repair or replacement may be indicated for severe valvular disease
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In a Page: Signs and Symptoms, 2004
Murmurs - Systolic:
Treatment
(In a Page: Signs and Symptoms)
-
Attention to hemodynamic status
-
Treat the underlying cause (e.g., anemia, infection, hyperthyroidism, MI)
-
Serial examinations to track progression of underlying cause
-
Valve repair/replacement may be indicated for severe valvular disease
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In a Page: Signs and Symptoms, 2004
Tachycardia/Palpitations:
Treatment
(In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms)
Sinus tachycardia: Treat underlying cause
- Acute therapy for SVT
–Vagal maneuvers increase vagal tone at AV node, lengthening the refractory period and breaking re-entry SVT: Ice to face (<1 year old), blowing hard on thumb (toddler/child), carotid massage (teenager)
–Adenosine: Increases refractory period of AV node better than vagal maneuvers by causing temporary AV block that breaks re-entry SVT; short (10 sec) half-life, so must give fast via IV push; side effects include hypotension (transient), chest tightness/pain, sense of “impending doom”
–Synchronized cardioversion all unstable tachycardias (especially V-fib and pulseless V-tach)
- Chronic therapy for re-entry SVT
–β
-blockers, digoxin (not in WPW), calcium channel blockers (not if <1 year old), other antiarrhythmics
–Ablation of bypass tract via cardiac catheterization
>>>>>> >>
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Palpitations:
Emergency interventions
(Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition))
If the patient complains of palpitations, ask him about dizziness and shortness of breath. Then inspect for pale, cool, clammy skin. Take the patient’s vital signs, noting hypotension and an irregular or abnormal pulse. If these signs are present, suspect cardiac arrhythmia. Prepare to begin cardiac monitoring and, if necessary, to deliver electroshock therapy. Start an I.V. line to administer an antiarrhythmic, if needed.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition), 2006
Pulse rhythm abnormality:
Emergency interventions
(Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition))
Quickly look for signs of reduced cardiac output, such as a decreased level of consciousness (LOC), hypotension, or dizziness. Promptly obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG) and possibly a chest X-ray, and begin cardiac monitoring. Insert an I.V. line for administration of emergency cardiac drugs, and give oxygen by nasal cannula or mask. Closely monitor the patient’s vital signs, pulse quality, and cardiac rhythm because accompanying bradycardia or tachycardia may result in poor tolerance of the abnormal rhythm and cause further deterioration of cardiac output. Keep emergency intubation, cardioversion, defibrillation, and suction equipment handy.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition), 2006
Tachycardia:
Emergency interventions
(Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition))
After detecting tachycardia, take the patient’s other vital signs and determine his level of consciousness (LOC). If the patient has increased or decreased blood pressure and is drowsy or confused, administer oxygen and begin cardiac monitoring. Perform electrocardiography (ECG) to examine for reduced cardiac output, which may initiate or result from tachycardia. Insert an I.V. line for fluid, blood product, and drug administration, and gather emergency resuscitation equipment.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition), 2006
Murmurs:
Patient counseling
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
Instruct the patient to contact his physician before undergoing invasive procedures or dental work because prophylactic antibiotics may be necessary.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Palpitations:
Emergency Interventions
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
If the patient complains of palpitations, ask him about dizziness and shortness of breath. Inspect for pale, cool, clammy skin. Take the patient’s vital signs, noting hypotension and irregular or abnormal pulse. If these signs are present, suspect cardiac arrhythmia. Prepare to begin cardiac monitoring and, if necessary, to deliver electroshock therapy. Start an I.V. line to administer an antiarrhythmic, if needed.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Pulse rhythm abnormality:
Emergency Interventions
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
Quickly look for signs of reduced cardiac output, such as decreased level of consciousness (LOC), hypotension, or dizziness. Promptly obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG) and possibly a chest X-ray, and begin cardiac monitoring. Insert an I.V. line for administration of emergency cardiac drugs, and give oxygen by nasal cannula or mask. Closely monitor vital signs, pulse quality, and cardiac rhythm because accompanying bradycardia or tachycardia may result in poor tolerance of the abnormal rhythm and cause further deterioration of cardiac output. Keep emergency intubation, cardioversion, and suction equipment handy.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Respirations, grunting:
Emergency interventions
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
If the patient exhibits grunting respirations, quickly place him in a comfortable position and check for signs of respiratory distress: wheezing; tachypnea (a minimum respiratory rate of 60 breaths/minute in infants, 40 breaths/minute in children ages 1 to 5, 30 breaths/minute in children older than age 5, or 20 breaths/minute in adults); accessory muscle use; substernal, subcostal, or intercostal retractions; nasal flaring; tachycardia (a minimum of 160 beats/minute in infants, 120 to 140 beats/minute in children ages 1 to 5, 120 beats/minute in children older age 5, or 100 beats/minute in adults); cyanotic lips or nail beds; hypotension (less than 80/40 mm Hg in infants, less than 80/50 mm Hg in children ages 1 to 5, less than 90/55 mm Hg in children older than age 5, or less than 90/60 mm Hg in adults); and decreased level of consciousness.
If you detect any of these signs, monitor oxygen saturation, and administer oxygen and prescribed medications such as a bronchodilator. Have emergency equipment available and prepare to intubate the patient if necessary. Obtain arterial blood gas analysis to determine oxygenation status.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Tachycardia:
Emergency interventions
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
If you detect tachycardia, first perform an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check for reduced cardiac output, which may initiate or result from tachycardia. Take the patient’s other vital signs and determine his level of consciousness (LOC). If the patient has increased or decreased blood pressure and is drowsy or confused, administer oxygen and begin cardiac monitoring. Insert an I.V. line for fluid, blood product, and drug administration, and gather emergency resuscitation equipment.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Murmurs:
Nursing considerations
(Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)
Prepare the patient for diagnostic tests, such as electrocardiography, echocardiography, and angiography. Administer an antibiotic and an anticoagulant as appropriate. Because any cardiac abnormality is frightening to the patient, provide emotional support.
Patient teaching
Instruct the patient to contact his physician before undergoing invasive procedures or dental work because prophylactic antibiotics may be necessary. Explain the signs and symptoms the patient should report.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007
Palpitations:
Nursing considerations
(Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)
Prepare the patient for diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram and Holter monitoring. Provide supplemental oxygen, as indicated. Assess the patient for electrolyte imbalances as a potential cause for the condition. To alleviate the anxiety that may arise with palpitations, provide a quiet, comfortable environment.
Patient teaching
If the patient’s palpitations are related to anxiety, provide information about anxiety and stress management. Refer him to community support services for stress management and therapy. Reinforce the need to avoid caffeine and provide information on alcohol and smoking cessation programs, as appropriate.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007
Pulse rhythm abnormality:
Nursing considerations
(Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)
Be prepared to administer sedation if the patient requires cardioversion therapy. Check his vital signs frequently to detect bradycardia, tachycardia, hypertension or hypotension, tachypnea, and dyspnea. Also, monitor intake, output, and daily weight.
Collect blood samples for serum electrolyte, cardiac enzyme, and drug level studies. Prepare the patient for a chest X-ray and a 12-lead ECG. If possible, obtain a previous ECG with which to compare current findings. Prepare the patient for 24-hour Holter monitoring.
Assist the patient with ambulation, as necessary. To prevent falls and injury, raise the side rails of his bed and don’t leave him unattended while he’s sitting or walking.
If indicated, prepare the patient for transfer to a cardiac or intensive care unit.
Patient teaching
Instruct the patient to keep a diary of activities and symptoms that develop to correlate with the incidence of arrhythmias. Educate him about the importance of avoiding tobacco and caffeine, both of which increase arrhythmia. Provide information on smoking cessation programs. Discuss strategies to improve medication compliance.
Teach the patient how to take his pulse rate and advise him to notify his physician if he detects an abnormality. Explain the signs and symptoms he should report to his physician immediately as well as those necessitating immediate emergency care.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007
Respirations, grunting:
Nursing considerations
(Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)
Closely monitor the patient’s condition. Keep emergency equipment nearby in case respiratory distress worsens. Prepare to administer oxygen using an oxygen hood or tent. Continually monitor ABG levels and deliver the minimum amount of oxygen possible, to avoid causing retinopathy of prematurity from excessively high oxygen levels.
Begin inhalation therapy with a bronchodilator, and administer an I.V. antimicrobial if the patient has pneumonia (or, in some cases, status asthmaticus). Follow these measures with chest physical therapy, as necessary. (See Positioning an infant for chest physical therapy, pages 254 and 255.)
Prepare the patient for chest X-rays. Because sedatives are contraindicated during respiratory distress, the restless child must be restrained during testing, as necessary. To prevent exposure to radiation, wear a lead apron and cover the child’s genital area with a lead shield. If a blood culture is ordered, be sure to record on the laboratory slip current antibiotic use.
Remember to explain all procedures to the patient’s parents and to provide emotional support.
Patient teaching
Teach the patient’s parents how to perform respiratory care and therapy in the home. Instruct them in the proper use of prescribed medications. Explain signs and symptoms that require immediate attention. If the grunting is related to asthma, teach the parents measures to assist them in managing the condition and reducing allergins in the home environment.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007
Tachycardia:
Nursing considerations
(Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)
Monitor the patient closely. Explain ordered diagnostic tests, such as a thyroid panel, electrolyte and hemoglobin levels, hematocrit, pulmonary function studies, and 12-lead ECG. If appropriate, prepare him for an ambulatory ECG.
Patient teaching
Provide information about the possibility of the tachyarrhythmia recurring. Teach the patient to take his pulse and monitor his blood pressure at home. Explain the importance of following the medication regimen as prescribed, such as thyroid medication or antiarrhythmics. Explain dietary limitations such as caffeine and alcohol.
Explain that an antiarrhythmic and an internal defibrillator or ablation therapy may be indicated for symptomatic tachycardia.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007
Murmurs:
Emergency Actions
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
Although not usually a sign of an emergency, murmurs — especially newly developed ones — may signal a serious complication in patients with bacterial endocarditis or a recent acute MI. When caring for a patient with known or suspected bacterial endocarditis, carefully auscultate for any new murmurs. Their development along with crackles, distended jugular veins, orthopnea, and dyspnea may signal heart failure.
Regular auscultation is also important in a patient who has experienced an acute MI. A loud decrescendo holosystolic murmur at the apex that radiates to the axilla and left sternal border or throughout the chest is significant, particularly in association with a widely split S2 and an atrial gallop (S4). This murmur, when accompanied by signs of acute pulmonary edema, usually indicates the development of acute mitral insufficiency due to rupture of the chordae tendineae — a medical emergency.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Palpitations:
Emergency Actions
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
If the patient complains of palpitations, ask him about dizziness and shortness of breath. Then inspect for pale, cool, clammy skin. Take the patient’s vital signs, noting hypotension and irregular or abnormal pulse. If these signs are present, suspect cardiac arrhythmia. Prepare to begin cardiac monitoring and, if necessary, to deliver electroshock therapy. Start an I.V. line to administer an antiarrhythmic, if needed.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Pulse rhythm abnormality:
Emergency Actions
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
Quickly look for signs of reduced cardiac output, such as decreased level of consciousness (LOC), hypotension, or dizziness. Promptly obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG) and possibly a chest X-ray, and begin cardiac monitoring. Insert an I.V. line for administration of emergency cardiac drugs, and give oxygen by nasal cannula or mask. Closely monitor vital signs, pulse quality, and cardiac rhythm because accompanying bradycardia or tachycardia may result in poor tolerance of the abnormal rhythm and cause further deterioration of cardiac output. Keep emergency intubation, cardioversion, and suction equipment handy.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Pulsus bisferiens:
Patient counseling
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
Teach the patient about the treatment of the underlying disorder. If the patient complains of fatigue, encourage him to take frequent rest periods throughout the day. Tell the patient to weigh himself daily and to report an increase of more than 3 lb (1.4 kg). Discuss signs and symptoms of heart failure to report to the health care provider.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Respirations, grunting:
Emergency Actions
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
If the patient exhibits grunting respirations, quickly place him in a comfortable position and check for signs of respiratory distress: wheezing; tachypnea (a minimum respiratory rate of 60 breaths/minute in infants, 40 breaths/minute in children ages 1 to 5, 30 breaths/
minute in children older than age 5, or 20 breaths/minute in adults); accessory muscle use; substernal, subcostal, or intercostal retractions; nasal flaring; tachycardia (a minimum of 160 beats/minute in infants, 120 to 140 beats/minute in children ages 1 to 5, 120 beats/minute in children older than age 5, or 100 beats per minute in adults); cyanotic lips or nail beds; hypotension (less than 80/40 mm Hg in infants, less than 80/50 mm Hg in children ages 1 to 5, less than 90/55 mm Hg in children older than age 5, or less than 90/60 mm Hg in adults); and decreased level of consciousness. If you detect any of these signs, monitor oxygen saturation and administer oxygen and prescribed medications such as a bronchodilator. Also, have emergency equipment available, and prepare to intubate the patient if necessary. Obtain arterial blood gas analysis to determine oxygenation status.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Tachycardia:
Emergency Actions
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
After detecting tachycardia, first perform electrocardiography (ECG) to examine for reduced cardiac output, which may initiate or result from tachycardia. Take the patient’s other vital signs and determine his level of consciousness (LOC). If the patient has increased or decreased blood pressure and is drowsy or confused, administer oxygen and begin cardiac monitoring. Insert an I.V. line for fluid, blood product, and drug administration, and gather emergency resuscitation equipment.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Murmurs:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Prepare the patient for diagnostic tests, such as electrocardiography, echocardiography, and angiography.
▪ Administer an antibiotic and an anticoagulant as appropriate.
▪ Because a cardiac abnormality is frightening to the patient, provide emotional support.
▪ Monitor the patient's heart rhythm and vital signs.
Patient teaching
▪ Explain the use of prophylactic antibiotics.
▪ Explain signs and symptoms that require prompt medical attention.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Palpitations:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Prepare the patient for diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram and Holter monitoring.
▪ Maintain a quiet, comfortable environment to minimize anxiety and perhaps decrease palpitations.
▪ Monitor for signs of reduced cardiac output and cardiac arrhythmias.
▪ Prepare the patient for cardioversion, if indicated.
▪ Provide supplemental oxygen.
Patient teaching
▪ Explain all diagnostic tests and procedures.
▪ Teach the patient how to reduce anxiety.
▪ Explain the disorder and treatment plan.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Pulse rhythm abnormality:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Monitor cardiac rhythm and obtain a 12-lead ECG.
▪ Prepare the patient for cardioversion, if indicated .
▪ Check vital signs frequently to detect hypertension or hypotension, tachypnea, and dyspnea. Also, monitor intake, output, daily weight, and pulse oximetry.
▪ Collect blood samples for serum electrolyte, cardiac markers, complete blood count, and drug level studies. Prepare the patient for a chest X-ray.
▪ Obtain a previous ECG with which to compare current findings.
Patient teaching
▪ Explain the importance of keeping a diary of activities and any symptoms that develop to correlate with the incidence of arrhythmias.
▪ Instruct the patient to avoid tobacco and caffeine.
▪ Teach the patient how to take his pulse.
▪ Reinforce signs and symptoms that require prompt medical attention.
▪ Explain the underlying disorder and treatment plan.
▪ Teach the patient about prescribed medications, including dosage, administration, and possible adverse effects.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Pulsus bisferiens:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Prepare the patient for diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, cardiac catheterization, or angiography. (See Managing the patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.)
▪ Schedule regular rest periods.
▪ Monitor intake and output and daily weight.
Patient teaching
▪ Explain the underlying disorder and its treatments.
▪ Discuss signs and symptoms that require prompt medical attention.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Respirations, grunting:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Closely monitor the patient's respiratory status.
▪ Keep emergency equipment nearby in case respiratory distress worsens.
▪ Administer oxygen.
▪ Continually monitor arterial blood gas levels and deliver the minimum amount of oxygen possible to avoid causing retinopathy of prematurity from excessively high oxygen levels.
▪ Begin inhalation therapy with a bronchodilator.
▪ Administer an I.V. antimicrobial if the patient has pneumonia.
▪ Perform chest physical therapy as necessary.
▪ Prepare the patient for chest X-rays or computed tomography scan.
Patient teaching
▪ Explain the disorder and treatment plan.
▪ Explain all procedures to the patient or his parents and provide emotional support.
▪ Teach techniques for home respiratory care and therapy.
▪ Give instructions on the proper use of prescribed drugs.
▪ Explain the signs and symptoms to report.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Tachycardia:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Monitor the patient's cardiovascular status and vital signs closely.
▪ Administer medications or fluids to control heart rate.
▪ Prepare the patient for diagnostic tests, such as a thyroid panel, electrolyte and hemoglobin levels, hematocrit, pulmonary function studies, 12-lead ECG, if appropriate, an ambulatory ECG.
Patient teaching
▪ Educate the patient about the possibility of the tachyarrhythmia recurring.
▪ Explain that an antiarrhythmic and an internal defibrillator or ablation therapy may be indicated for symptomatic tachycardia.
▪ Discuss the underlying cause of the tachycardia and its treatments.
▪ Explain medications, their proper dosage and administration, and possible adverse effects.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
A person with atrial fibrillation has two options; they can remain in atrial fibrillation or restore sinus rhythm. Learn the factors that may have an...
Learn about the treatment of atrial septal defect, ASD, a serious heart defect.
Sexual contact can sometimes result in problems. An unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases may be some of those consequences. But by...
Health insurance is important to everyone, especially people with chronic conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Tune in to...
See full list of 4 related videos
» Next page: Doctors and Medical Specialists for Tachycardia
Rate This Website
What do you think about the features of this website?
Take our user survey and have your say:
Website User Survey
Medical Tools & Articles:
Next articles:
Tools & Services:
Medical Articles:
Forums & Message Boards
- Ask or answer a question at the Boards:
