Progress in cardiovascular nursing
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Prog Cardiovasc Nurs · Jan 2004
ReviewThe effects of obesity on the cardiopulmonary system: implications for critical care nursing.
Obesity has risen at epidemic rates over the last 20 years. This increase crosses all ages, genders, racial/ethnic groups, and income and educational levels. A variety of genetic, environmental, physiological, psychological, and sociocultural factors influence the development of obesity. ⋯ Suggestions for alterations in cardiovascular and pulmonary assessment techniques are discussed. Nursing practice interventions are presented for maximizing cardiopulmonary function and preventing complications. The advocacy role of the nurse is addressed as a critical component in working to develop a culture of understanding and acceptance for the obese patient.
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The incidence of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) in the United States has been increasing dramatically over the past 15 years, and is now at epidemic proportions. DM2 is the clinical manifestation of a long-term metabolic process that is initiated by cells' decreased sensitivity to the actions of insulin. Many outcome studies have identified DM2 as a strong and independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular complications such as hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and heart failure. ⋯ However, in selecting a therapeutic regimen for patients, clinicians should be aware that potentially severe adverse events may occur at a rate not previously identified in phase 3 studies. Certain therapies used to treat DM2, by effectively increasing the sensitivity of insulin, have also been reported to cause adverse effects, which can precipitate symptomatic heart failure. The purpose of this column is to discuss the therapeutic options available for treating patients with DM2, the potential pathophysiology of the adverse events of symptomatic heart failure, encouragement of use of the US Food and Drug Administration MedWatch program for reporting adverse events associated with medication therapy, and review of newer treatment guidelines for use of insulin-sensitizing agents in patients with chronic heart failure.
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Prog Cardiovasc Nurs · Jan 2003
Review Case ReportsTransitioning adolescents with congenital heart disease into adult health care.
The effort and commitment dedicated to the treatment of children with congenital heart disease over the past 50 years has been astounding. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure these young patients who have survived the varying challenges of their conditions a smooth transition into a new world of adult health care. The key to the long-term management of an increasing number of children surviving congenital heart disease is the effective coordination of care from pediatric to adult health care. Strategies for facilitating the transition of the adolescent with congenital heart disease into adult health care practices are presented in this paper.
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The purpose of this review is to describe a step-by-step assessment of the pulmonary system. Beginning with the sequence of the history and physical examination related to pulmonary assessment, the author describes the most common chief complaints and potential causes of these symptoms. The inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation steps of the physical examination are also reviewed. A detailed assessment of the pulmonary system will aid in the identification of patient problems and assist in the selection of appropriate goals and interventions for the patient.