The nurse is planning the care of a client with heart failure. The nurse should identify what overall goals for the client’s care? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
A.
Limit physical activity
B.
Prevent endocarditis
C.
Relieve the patient’s symptoms
D.
Extend survival
E.
Improve functional status
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answers are C, D, and E.
In caring for a client with heart failure, nurses focus on holistic goals that aim to improve quality of life, alleviate symptoms, and extend the client’s life expectancy. Here’s an explanation of each goal selected:
C. Relieve the patient’s symptoms
One of the primary goals of heart failure management is symptom relief. Heart failure often presents with symptoms such as shortness of breath (dyspnea), fatigue, and edema (swelling), which significantly impair the client’s daily activities. The nurse’s plan of care should include interventions that help manage fluid retention (through diuretics, for example), improve oxygenation, and enhance the client’s comfort. Symptom relief not only improves the client’s well-being but also reduces hospitalizations by preventing symptom exacerbations.
D. Extend survival
Heart failure is a chronic condition that can be life-threatening. Treatment plans should aim to extend the client’s survival by managing the underlying cause of heart failure, such as hypertension or coronary artery disease, and preventing further cardiac damage. The nurse collaborates with the healthcare team to ensure the client receives appropriate medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers) that improve cardiac function and reduce the heart’s workload, potentially prolonging the client’s life.
E. Improve functional status
Improving the client’s functional status means helping them achieve a higher level of independence in daily activities. Clients with heart failure often experience a reduction in exercise tolerance and the ability to perform self-care tasks due to fatigue and weakness. By educating the client on energy conservation techniques, promoting gradual physical activity (as tolerated), and monitoring for signs of worsening heart failure, nurses can assist clients in regaining their ability to participate in daily activities.
Incorrect Responses:
- A. Limit physical activity: While rest is important during acute exacerbations, regular physical activity is encouraged to improve functional capacity and heart health.
- B. Prevent endocarditis: This is not a direct goal for heart failure care unless the client has a condition that predisposes them to endocarditis.
These goals focus on symptom management, survival extension, and enhancing daily life, leading to improved outcomes for heart failure clients.