CHAPTER 1 Cardiovascular System^67
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Place patient in a high Fowler’s position to ease breathing.
- Monitor for:
- Pulmonary edema because it may be a complication of surgery.
- Thrombus because of a prosthetic valve.
- Arrhythmias because of an irritated heart; patient may feel palpitations,
anxiety. - Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) to monitor for oxygenation, acidosis, alkalosis.
- Weigh the patient daily to determine fluid balance.
- Explain to the patient:
- Signs and symptoms to look for and to report changes in condition.
- Schedule rest periods during the day.
- Restrict diet to low-sodium and low-fat foods.
Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP)
WHAT WENT WRONG?
The mitral valve bulges back into the left atrium, allowing blood to flow back-
wards from the left ventricle into the left atrium. This is a common problem and is
not considered a serious condition. It is often congenital.
PROGNOSIS
Most patients with MVP are unaware they have it until symptoms start occurring.
Often it is an incidental finding on an echocardiogram. A large majority of pa-
tients require no treatment other than endocarditis prophylaxis during dental and
unsterileprocedures. Some patients progress with their symptoms, developing
arrhythmias and requiring medications. Severe MVP may require mitral valve repair
or replacement.
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Asymptomatic because the valve leaflets do not bulge greatly
- Palpations because the valve is not operating properly
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