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A nursing diagnosis approach to the patient awaiting cardiac transplantation
Insights
Dilated cardiomyopathy often leads to end-stage heart disease requiring cardiac transplantation. This article identifies key nursing diagnoses and interventions for patients awaiting heart transplants.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Nursing Science
Background:
- Dilated cardiomyopathy is the primary indication for cardiac transplantation.
- Progressive cardiac dysfunction impacts patient outcomes.
Observation:
- Focuses on the pre-transplant period for patients with end-stage cardiac disease.
- Utilizes a case study approach to illustrate patient issues.
Findings:
- Identifies five critical nursing diagnoses relevant to pre-transplant care.
- Details specific nursing interventions for managing patient problems.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of targeted nursing care in the pre-transplant phase.
- Provides a framework for optimizing patient management while awaiting heart transplantation.
Abstract:
The most common reason to perform cardiac transplantation is dilated cardiomyopathy. Alterations in cardiac output secondary to decreased contractility and increased preload and afterload will, over time, lead to progressive deterioration of the patient with this type of end-stage cardiac disease. Heart transplantation is now an accepted therapy for these patients. This article focused on the patient in the period awaiting cardiac transplantation. Five pertinent nursing diagnoses were identified and discussed. A case study approach was utilized to highlight patient problems and nursing interventions.