Congestive Heart Failure

Care Plan for Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Category / Primary Body System

• Cardiovascular System

Problem

• Patient is at risk for complications due to Congestive Heart Failure (CHF).

Goal

• Patient will not have CHF exacerbation for the next 90 days.

Plan/Approach

1. Medication Management

   • Administer medications as ordered to manage CHF and prevent exacerbations.

2. Laboratory Monitoring

   • Check labs as ordered to monitor electrolyte levels, renal function, and BNP levels.

3. Dietary Management

   • Provide diet as ordered, including low sodium and fluid restriction if prescribed.

4. Patient Education

   • Educate patient about energy conservation techniques to prevent fatigue and manage daily activities effectively.

5. Diagnostic Monitoring

   • Check X-ray as needed to monitor for changes in heart size and pulmonary congestion.

6. Activity Management

   • Encourage rest periods during activities to prevent overexertion and reduce the risk of exacerbation.

7. Symptom Monitoring

   • Notify MD/RNP for signs of CHF exacerbation such as increased edema, wheezing, or shortness of breath.

Rationale

1. Medication Management

   • Proper medication administration is crucial to control symptoms and prevent CHF exacerbations.

2. Laboratory Monitoring

   • Regular lab checks help monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect potential complications early.

3. Dietary Management

   • A heart-healthy diet, low in sodium, can help manage fluid retention and reduce the workload on the heart.

4. Patient Education

   • Educating patients on energy conservation helps them manage their condition and avoid exacerbation triggers.

5. Diagnostic Monitoring

   • X-rays provide visual evidence of heart and lung status, aiding in the detection of complications.

6. Activity Management

   • Balancing activity with rest periods helps prevent fatigue and reduces cardiac workload.

7. Symptom Monitoring

   • Early detection of symptoms allows for timely intervention, preventing severe exacerbations.

Actions

1. Medication Management

   • Administer prescribed medications on time and monitor for effectiveness and side effects.

2. Laboratory Monitoring

   • Collect and analyze blood samples as ordered, paying close attention to key indicators such as electrolytes, renal function, and BNP levels.

3. Dietary Management

   • Provide meals according to dietary restrictions and educate the patient on maintaining this diet at home.

4. Patient Education

   • Teach energy conservation techniques, such as sitting while performing tasks and avoiding unnecessary physical exertion.

5. Diagnostic Monitoring

   • Schedule and review chest X-rays as needed to monitor heart and lung status.

6. Activity Management

   • Encourage the patient to take frequent rest breaks during activities and provide assistance as needed.

7. Symptom Monitoring

   • Monitor for signs of exacerbation such as increased swelling, wheezing, or shortness of breath, and notify the MD/RNP immediately.