Читать книгу Understanding Anatomy and Physiology in Nursing - John Knight - Страница 138

Based on Gloria’s prior history, it is clear that she has long-standing coronary artery disease. This would explain why she has experienced chest pain during exertion which is indicative of angina. Her past history of infarction indicates that portions of her heart muscle (myocardium) have been damaged. This new issue of swollen ankles and feet is worrying since peripheral oedema is a clinical feature of right-handed heart failure.

It may be that despite having stents fitted, Gloria has suffered further infarctions or the damage caused by the previous infarctions is gradually reducing the ability of the right-hand side of the heart to collect venous blood and pump it through the lungs. These new symptoms will need careful assessment to determine if any further interventions or new medications are needed to manage Gloria’s heart problems.