Inflammation of the muscular layer of the heart. Abnormal function resulting from inflammation reduces CO and predisposes the client to CHF. Ischemia of the myocardium results in tachycardia and dysrhythmias.
- Viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infection.
- Chronic alcohol and cocaine abuse
- Secondary to Radiation Therapy
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Bulimic patients abusing Ipecac Syrup to induce vomiting, causing myocardial damage.
- May be idiopathic.
- Its complication is cardiomyopathy, where myocardial dilation and hypertrophy occurs, which ends up in decompensation.
Assessment
- Pain, Fever, Tachycardia, Dysrhythmias, Dyspnea, Malaise, Fatigue, Anorexia, Pallor/Cyanosis, RSHF Symptoms
- Increased WBC, Elevated CRP, Elevated Cardiac Enzymes, Abnormal ECG
- CXR and ECHO reveals cardiomegaly
- Most definitive: endomyocardial biopsy for testing
Intervention
- Treatment of underlying cause (antibiotics if m.o.)
- Bed rest, Na+ restriction, Cardiotonic Drugs (Digitalis)
- Monitor:
- Cardiopulmonary status and complications (CHF, Dysrhythmias)
- Vital Signs, Daily Weight, I&O
- Heart and Lung Sounds
- Pulse Oximetry
- Cardiac Monitoring
- Dependent Edema