Patient Information:
- John Smith
- 1234567
- 12/03/1950
- 1 November 2024, 14:00
- Inpatient ward
Subjective:
- Patient reports shortness of breath and chest pain.
- Chest pain is described as a pressure, 7/10 in intensity, radiating to the left arm.
- Patient expresses concern about the severity of their condition and the need for further tests.
- Patient and family understand the need for oxygen and monitoring.
Objective:
- BP: 160/90 mmHg, HR: 110 bpm, RR: 24, Temp: 37.2°C, Oxygen Saturation: 92% on room air.
- General appearance: appears anxious and in distress. Skin integrity intact. No edema noted. Lung sounds: crackles in the left lower lobe. Heart sounds: regular rhythm, no murmurs. Abdomen soft, non-tender. Mobility status: ambulating with assistance.
- Blood glucose level: 110 mg/dL.
- Review of medical chart: recent ECG showed ST-segment elevation; orders for cardiac enzymes and chest X-ray; medication changes include aspirin and heparin.
Assessment:
- Nursing diagnosis: Impaired gas exchange related to potential cardiac event.
- Prioritization: Administer oxygen, monitor cardiac status, and prepare for further interventions.
Plan:
- Administer oxygen via nasal cannula at 2L/min.
- Continuous cardiac monitoring.
- Prepare for blood draws for cardiac enzymes.
- Notify the physician of changes in patient status.
- Scheduled chest X-ray at 16:00.
- Collaborate with the physician regarding further treatment options.
Interventions:
- Administered oxygen via nasal cannula at 2L/min.
- Placed patient on cardiac monitor.
- Obtained blood samples for cardiac enzymes.
- Provided reassurance and emotional support to the patient and family.
- Contacted the physician to report changes in patient status.
Response to interventions: Patient's oxygen saturation improved to 96% on 2L oxygen.
Evaluation:
- Patient's shortness of breath has slightly improved.
- Chest pain remains at 6/10.
- Cardiac rhythm remains stable.
- No new findings.
Plan for Continuing Care:
- Continue to monitor vital signs and cardiac status.
- Await results of cardiac enzymes.
- Prepare for potential transfer to the cardiac unit.
- Provide ongoing patient and family education regarding the condition and treatment plan.
Additional Notes:
- Patient and family were educated on the importance of rest and avoiding strenuous activities.
- Communication with the patient and family regarding the plan of care and potential interventions.
- No safety concerns or incidents reported.