Nursing Education Site
Anna Curran. RN, BSN, PHN 
Risk for Infection is a critical nursing diagnosis that identifies patients who are more susceptible to infections due to compromised immune defenses, invasive procedures, or chronic illnesses. Recognizing and addressing this risk early is essential for preventing complications, promoting healing, and ensuring patient safety in all clinical settings. For nursing students preparing for the NCLEX, … See Nursing Diagnoses
Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the protective, double-layered sac that surrounds the heart. This condition causes sharp, pleuritic chest pain that often radiates to the neck, shoulders, or back and is typically relieved when the patient leans forward. For nurses, recognizing pericarditis is crucial because early intervention can relieve pain, prevent complications, and … See Nursing Diagnoses
Cardiac tamponade is a life-threatening condition in which fluid (blood, pus, or effusion) rapidly accumulates in the pericardial sac, compressing the heart and preventing normal filling. This leads to reduced ventricular filling and a sudden drop in cardiac output. Common causes include chest trauma, recent cardiac surgery, pericarditis, malignancy, or uremia that allow blood or … See Nursing Diagnoses
Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It typically follows extensive myocardial damage (most often from a large myocardial infarction) and results in low cardiac output and widespread tissue hypoperfusion. Clinically, cardiogenic shock is defined by sustained hypotension (e.g., systolic ≤90 mmHg) with … See Nursing Diagnoses
Assessment Cues and Diagnostics:Nursing assessment focuses on rapidly identifying signs of dissection. Watch for sudden, intense chest or upper back pain often described by the patient as tearing or ripping; the pain may radiate to the neck, jaw, or arms. Check for differences in blood pressure between arms (a gap >20 mmHg is concerning) and … See Nursing Diagnoses