You are caring for a client with pericarditis. What instructions should you provide a client with pericarditis who is suffering from decreased cardiac output?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Restricting caffeine and sodium can help to reduce the workload on the heart and decrease the symptoms of decreased cardiac output. Mild exercises may be encouraged as long as they do not exacerbate symptoms. Laying on the right side is not recommended as it can increase pressure on the heart. Administering anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics may be a part of the treatment plan, but this alone does not address decreased cardiac output.

You Are Caring for a Client with Pericarditis