OVERVIEW
Viral myocarditis is a condition characterized by nonspecific interstitial inflammation of the myocardium caused by cardiomyopathic viral infection. It is more common in children and adolescents. Clinical manifestations depend on the extent and location of the lesion, mild cases may be asymptomatic, while severe cases may present with heart failure, cardiogenic shock and sudden death. At present, there is no targeted treatment in China, and a comprehensive treatment approach must be adopted and nursing care must be strengthened in order to effectively improve the cure rate.
Main nursing problems
1. High body temperature.
2. Potential complications: arrhythmia, heart failure.
3. Activity intolerance.
Nursing measures
1. Psychological care
We should actively and enthusiastically communicate with the patient, clearly explain the evolution of the disease process and the late results, to avoid the patient being too anxious. And arrange family and friends to visit the patient, adjust the patient’s mentality, and be more positive and optimistic in the treatment.
2. Infection care
Strictly follow the doctor’s instructions to use antibiotics for treatment, and observe the effect of infection control and adverse reactions.
3. Medication care
Adhere to the doctor’s instructions to use anti-infection, improve immune function, improve myocardial metabolism of drugs.
4. Fever care
If the patient has fever, active cooling treatment should be carried out, such as warm water bath and other physical cooling methods. When the patient’s body temperature is too high, the patient should follow the doctor’s instructions for medication to lower the temperature, and pay attention to the patient’s basic condition in real time, to prevent hypothermia caused by too rapid cooling.
5. Dietary care
Patients should eat nutritious, light, easy-to-digest food to increase body resistance, and implement the principle of small meals and avoid overeating. Avoid spicy, fried, pickled, smoked and grilled food, and do not drink coffee, strong tea and other stimulating beverages. Heart failure patients need to eat low-salt, low-fat food. Increase fiber food intake, eat more fruits, green vegetables to supplement enough vitamin C, in order to promote myocardial metabolism and repair, to prevent constipation.
6. Complications care
Closely monitor the patient’s pulse, heart rate, body temperature, respiration, blood pressure and other changes, for patients with symptoms such as dyspnea, abnormal pulse, pallor, irritability, etc., should contact the doctor immediately for treatment.
Health education
1. Advise patients to rest continuously for more than 3 months after discharge from the hospital, avoid overwork, and do outdoor exercise appropriately to enhance immunity.
2. Adhere to the medication as prescribed by the doctor and review regularly.
3. Quit smoking and drinking, and ensure dietary hygiene.
4. If there is chest pain, chest tightness, palpitations and other discomforts, timely follow-up.