CHAPTER 1 Cardiovascular System^25
- Administer vasodilator—dilates blood vessels (arterial and venous) to decrease
the venous return to the heart and reduces the peripheral arterial resistance
(what the heart has to pump against).- Nitroprusside; nitroglycerin.
- Administer adrenergic agent—to increase the heart rate and blood pressure:
- epinephrine.
- Administer inotropes strengthens the heart beat, improves contractions, pro-
duces peripheral vasoconstriction:- dopamine
- dobutamine
- inammone
- milrinone
- Administer vasopressor decreases blood flow to all organs except the heart
and brain:- norepinephrine
- Provide supplemental oxygen—may need to be via intubation.
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Ineffective tissue perfusion
- Decreased cardiac output
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Monitor vital signs—look for changes in BP, P, R.
- Monitor heart sounds.
- Monitor Swanz Ganz catheter is a catheter placed into the pulmonary artery
to check for pressures in the heart, vessels, and lungs. - Test capillary refill.
- Monitor arterial blood gas to learn pH, acidosis or alkalosis, bicarb level.
- Monitor respiratory status—due to poor perfusion, these patients are in res-
piratory distress; mechanical ventilation may be needed. - Place the patient on bed rest.