Congestive heart failure CNAs play a critical role Fall prevention

Anatomy of the heart A hollow organ made of muscle Four separate chambers While the heart is at rest, each chamber fills with blood When the heart beats, the chambers contract to pump blood through the body Heart failure occurs when the heart: Cannot pump enough blood to the body Is not resting properly February 2015 Heart failure

Signs and symptoms High blood pressure Increased pulse Light-headedness or dizziness Shortness of breath Coughing or wheezing Swelling, especially in legs or ankles February 2015 Heart failure

Potential treatments for heart failure Heart surgery Medicines Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup ACE-inhibitors to increase blood flow Medicines to lower blood pressure Lifestyle changes Reducing sodium intake Reducing fluids intake February 2015 Heart failure

Monitoring residents with heart failure You may be asked to: Weigh residents at the same time each morning Record fluid intake and urine output Check residents for increased coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath February 2015 Heart failure

Warning signs to report immediately Weight gain of more than 3 pounds in one day or 5 pounds in a week Worsening shortness of breath, especially at rest Waking at night gasping for air or short of breath Increased swelling in ankles or legs Changes in blood pressure February 2015 Heart failure

Lifestyle changes A nurse may ask you to assist residents by: Helping to limit their salt intake Offering only small amount of fluids to drink Propping up the legs to reduce swelling Propping the head up to improve breathing February 2015 Heart failure