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Electrocardiographic changes following subarachnoid hemorrhage
1Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15232.
Insights
Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) commonly causes electrocardiographic abnormalities that mimic heart attacks, even without prior cardiac issues. This review covers SAH-related rhythm disturbances, their causes, and nursing care strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Critical Care Nursing
Background:
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) frequently presents with electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities.
- These ECG changes can resemble acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
- Patients often lack a history of cardiac disease or concurrent cardiac symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the types of cardiac rhythm disturbances observed after SAH.
- To discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these SAH-induced cardiac changes.
- To explore potential nursing interventions and identify areas for future research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on SAH and associated cardiac events.
- Analysis of electrocardiographic findings in SAH patients.
- Synthesis of pathophysiological theories and nursing management strategies.
Main Results:
- Common ECG abnormalities include ST-segment and T-wave changes, arrhythmias, and QT interval prolongation.
- Pathophysiology may involve autonomic nervous system dysregulation and direct myocardial injury.
- Nursing care should focus on continuous cardiac monitoring and prompt management of arrhythmias.
Conclusions:
- ECG abnormalities are a significant and common complication of SAH.
- Understanding the pathophysiology is crucial for effective patient management.
- Further research is needed to optimize nursing interventions and treatment protocols for SAH patients with cardiac complications.
Abstract:
Electrocardiographic abnormalities are frequently seen in patients who have experienced a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). These changes often mimic those seen in acute myocardial infarction although often patients have no history or other symptoms of cardiac disease. This paper reviews the types of rhythm disturbances seen following SAH and discusses the pathophysiologic basis for these changes. It also presents possible nursing interventions for these patients and explores areas needing further research.