Care Plans

Care Plan for Pericardial Effusion Management

Category: Cardiovascular

Assessment

Patient presents with chest pain and dyspnea. Echocardiogram confirms pericardial effusion.

Diagnosis

Risk for decreased cardiac output related to pericardial effusion.

Goals

Patient will remain hemodynamically stable with no signs of cardiac tamponade. Patient will understand the need for monitoring and potential interventions.

Interventions

Monitor vital signs and cardiac function closely. Prepare for possible pericardiocentesis if indicated. Educate patient on signs and symptoms of cardiac tamponade and when to seek immediate medical attention. Administer prescribed medications to manage symptoms and reduce effusion size.

Rationale

These interventions aim to monitor and manage the effusion, prevent complications, and educate the patient on recognizing emergency symptoms.

Evaluation

Patient's cardiac function and response to treatment will be monitored regularly, and the care plan will be adjusted as needed.