Nursing Care Planning
Nursing Assessment
Assess vitals, including pain, frequently in the early phase of treatment and recovery
Monitor cardiovascular function for dysrhythmias with an EKG (remember: the first EKG should be performed within 10 minutes of arrival)
Heart sounds should be assessed for the emergence of a new murmur
Once stable: Collect data from the patient about comorbidities, including hypertension, smoking, and family history or heart disease and MI’s. Inquire about stress levels, such as work-related and personal stressors.
Nursing Diagnoses
Impaired tissue profusion
Acute pain
Anxiety
Activity intolerance
Nursing Interventions
Impaired tissue profusion related to issue ischemia secondary to coronary artery occlusion as evidenced by patient report of chest pain, EKG readings, restlessness, and changes in level of consciousness
Acute pain: Assess pain levels and administer medications as ordered. Instruct patient to do relaxation techniques, including deep and slow breathing, distraction behaviors, visualization, and guided imagery. Assist as needed
Anxiety: Administer medications as ordered (or via protocol per policy), including supplemental oxygen. Enhancing oxygenation may relieve anxiety associated with hypoxia
Activity intolerance: Assess tolerance levels for activity. Cluster care activities to provide periods of uninterrupted tasks. Instruct patient to reserve energy as possible by spacing out activities