[Nursing care of pulmonary embolism in out-of-hospital emergencies].
Enfermeria Clinica · 2016-01-01 · Case report
Abstract
Pulmonary embolism is one of the most severe venous thromboembolic diseases, both in mortality and the high number of associated complications and their impact on quality of life. The early hours are critical and proper management during this period can determine future sequels. Therefore, in the outpatient setting, nurses must have adequate knowledge and tools to act quickly and efficiently. In this paper, we present a case of a 77 year-old male in his home that after being discharged from a knee replacement surgery starts with symptoms compatible with pulmonary thromboembolism. A Nursing Care Process is performed, according to the functional patterns of Margory Gordon and a care plan is developed based on NNN taxonomy (NANDA, NOC, NIC). As main nursing diagnosis 'ineffective breathing pattern' is selected and as possible potential complication of the pulmonary embolism the 'pulmonary infarction' is chosen. The results obtained after conducting the care plan are satisfactory, improving the signs and symptoms presented by the patient, hence why we believe it is useful for nurses when facing similar clinical situations.