Cardiac and Hematologic Nursing Notes

Atrial Fibrillation

A common type of arrhythmia affecting the heart's rhythm, characterized on ECG by irregularly irregular rhythm, absence of distinct P waves, and presence of fibrillation waves.

Atrial Flutter

A type of fast, abnormal heartbeat seen on ECG with a sawtooth appearance of P waves (F-waves) and a regular ventricular response.

Sinus Bradycardia

A slower than normal heart rate (typically

Left-sided Heart Failure

Heart failure type with symptoms including pulmonary congestion, dyspnea, orthopnea, and cough with frothy sputum.

Right-sided Heart Failure

Heart failure type with symptoms including peripheral edema, ascites, and JVD (Jugular Venous Distension).

Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Sudden worsening of heart failure symptoms requiring urgent intervention; priority interventions may include diuresis and optimization of heart function.

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)

A fast, potentially life-threatening heart rhythm originating from the ventricles. Immediate defibrillation is critical for unstable VT without a pulse.

Hypertension Complications

Chronic hypertension can lead to end-organ damage including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

DASH Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy, effective in managing hypertension.

Modifiable Risk Factors for Hypertension

Diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity.

Nonmodifiable Risk Factors for Hypertension

Age, race, family history, and gender.

Nitroglycerin

Cardiac medication administered as a patch or sublingual tablet with side effects including headache, hypotension, and dizziness.

Beta-blockers

Cardiac medications useful in managing hypertension and heart failure; they slow the heart rate and reduce myocardial oxygen demand.

ACE Inhibitors

Cardiac medications that help control blood pressure and reduce heart failure symptoms by preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.

Diuretics (Furosemide, Thiazide)

Cardiac medications that require monitoring potassium levels (K+) due to the risk of hypokalemia.

Digoxin

Cardiac medication effective in heart failure and atrial fibrillation; monitor for toxicity characterized by nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances.

Heparin Monitoring

Anticoagulant monitored by PTT (Partial Thromboplastin Time).

Coumadin (Warfarin) Monitoring

Anticoagulant monitored via INR (International Normalized Ratio).

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Anemia resulting from inadequate iron intake or absorption.

Pernicious Anemia

Anemia caused by a deficiency of intrinsic factor, leading to impaired vitamin B12 absorption.

Aplastic Anemia

Anemia where bone marrow fails to produce adequate blood cells, resulting in a deficiency of all blood cell types.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic disorder leading to abnormal hemoglobin, causing red blood cells to deform into a sickle shape. Oxygen therapy may be indicated during pain crises along with hydration.

Polycythemia

Increased red blood cell mass; leads to increased blood viscosity and risk of thrombosis.

Thalassemia

A genetic blood disorder affecting hemoglobin production.

Blood Transfusion Safety

Includes completing patient verification before transfusion and monitoring for adverse reactions and hemolysis.

Leukemia

Malignant disorders affecting blood cells, characterized by an increase in abnormal white blood cells.

Hodgkin's Disease

A specific type of lymphoma, often marked by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.

Neutropenic Precautions

Protocols to prevent infections in patients with low white blood cell counts; include hand hygiene, restricted visitation, and protecting from unwashed fruits/vegetables.

Cardiac Tamponade

Accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space post-cardiac surgery; signs include hypotension, muffled heart sounds, and jugular venous distension.

Infection Prevention (Post-Cardiac Surgery)

Strict asepsis during dressing changes and invasive procedures.

Oxygenation and Safety Protocols

Implement oxygen therapy as needed and take fall precautions, especially in post-operative patients.

Patient Education (CHF Exacerbation)

Teach patients about signs of congestive heart failure exacerbation, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications including diet and exercise.

New Dyspnea

Shortness of breath that develops suddenly; could indicate worsening heart failure or pulmonary issues.

Altered Neurovascular Status

Changes in cognition, responsiveness, or motor function that may indicate neurological compromise.

SBAR Reporting

Ensures clear, concise, and structured communication among healthcare providers, including Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation.

ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation)

Prioritize these elements in emergency situations and patient assessment to ensure life-saving interventions.

Professional Judgment

Applying clinical judgment by utilizing evidence-based rationale to make informed decisions regarding patient care.

Lab Evaluations

Evaluate lab values, ECG abnormalities, and trends in vital signs for early recognition of deteriorating patient conditions.

Patient Education Reinforcement

Continually reinforce education regarding medications and lifestyle changes necessary for disease management and prevention of acute exacerbations.