Heart Failure w/ Afib

Atrial Fibrillation

Commonly occurs in heart failure. Multiple areas in the atria initiate rapid, irregular stimuli, which results in the inability to see clear P waves on the ECG recording. Some, but not all, of these electrical impulses travel through the AV node, causing an irregular ventricular response. This appears as irregular QRS complexes on the ECG recording and manifests as an irregular pulse rhythm when assessing the client.

Administer a prescribed stat dose of digoxin (lanoxin)

If a dose of dig has already been prescribed, it should be administered before taking further action. Dig slows the HR and increases the force of the heart's contraction, which is very useful in the treatment of Bert's type of cardiac dysrhythmia

Pulmonary artery catheterization

used in the management of acutely ill clients in the critical care setting. catheterization allows measurement of the pressures within the right atrium and pulmonary artery, which then guides treatment

Blood Pressure

ACE Inhibitor

Prevent straining during bowel movement

Serum digoxin level of 1.0 ng/ml

0.5-2.0

Impaired gas exchange

due to fluid in lungs

encourage frequent rest periods