Activity Intolerance

1. Definition of "activity intolerance."

1. It is an alteration in the ability to tolerate increased physical activity.

2. Signs and symptoms of activity intolerance.

1. Excessive increase or decrease in blood pressure.

2. Excessive increase or decrease in pulse rate.

3. Shortness of breath.

4. Excessive fatigue or weakness.

5. Sweating.

6. Dizziness.

7. Pallor or cyanosis.

3. Causes of activity intolerance.

1. Poor nutrition.

2. Depression, stress, crisis.

3. Advancing age.

4. Diseases (congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, chronic obstructive lung disease, infections, endocrine disorders, etc.).

5. Sedentary life-style or prolonged bed rest.

6. Medication.

7. Pain.

8. Electrolyte imbalance.

9. Other:                            

4. Measures to increase activity tolerance.

1. Use energy-saving techniques.

1. Rest frequently during an activity to allow the heart to recover.

2. Sit to perform an activity rather than stand, if possible.

3. Schedule activity when most tolerated.

1. After rest periods.

2. After pain medication.

3. At least one hour after meals.

4. Put most frequently used items within easy reach.

2. Gradually increase exercise with planned, scheduled rest periods.

3. Stop activity immediately if cardiac symptoms such as chest pain, increased shortness of breath, or excessive fatigue occur.

4. Use adjunctive equipment such as a walker, wheelchair, cane, etc.

5. Eat a well-balanced diet (use nutritional supplements as needed). (Provide "Daily Food Guide" handout.)

6. Set realistic goals.