Sternal wound management: a case study. Nursing grand rounds.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Infectious Disease Nursing
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABS) is a common procedure with potential complications.
• Mediastinitis, a deep sternal wound infection, presents a significant challenge post-CABS.
• Nursing management is crucial for addressing the complex needs of patients with mediastinitis.

Observation:

• A case study details a male patient who developed mediastinitis after CABS.
• The patient presented with a sternal wound infection, a severe complication.
• Nursing care focused on respiratory, integumentary, and psychological support.

Findings:

• Nursing care plans were developed for Ineffective Breathing Pattern, Impaired Skin Integrity, and Ineffective Coping.
• Comprehensive nursing interventions were implemented to manage the patient's condition.
• The patient required approximately two months of hospitalization for recovery.

Implications:

• This case highlights the critical role of specialized nursing in managing post-cardiac surgery infections.
• Effective nursing care can significantly improve patient outcomes and facilitate recovery.
• Understanding and applying evidence-based nursing practices are essential for preventing and treating mediastinitis.