superior vena cava syndrome

patho

compression or obstruction by tumor growth or clots in the vessel lead to congestion of blood

SVC nursing interventions

assess HR and BP because this decreases Cardiac output

pain, life threatening

SVC causes ____ and can be _____

high dose radiation

this may provide temporary relief to a SVC syndrome patient

when patient wakes up

early SVC signs occur when?

early SVC signs

edema of face, especially around eyes, tightness around shirt or collar

compression worsens

engorged blood vessels occur when ____, causing edema in arms, hands, dyspnea, nose bleeds

late signs

hemorrhage, cyanosis, mental status change, decreased CO, hypotension

death

this occurs if compression is not relieved

radiographic imaging

SVC diagnostic test

SVC treatment

metal stent, high fowlers, chemo for long-term