It is the abnormal accumulation of fluid that results when the heart cannot pump enough blood from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Fluid from the small blood vessels of the lungs rapidly oozes from the vessels into the lungs.
It typically occurs at night, after lying down for several hours.
Heart failure (most common).
Kidney failure.
Intravenous fluid overload.
Intravenous drug overdose.
Drowning.
Initial stage:
Persistent cough.
Slight shortness of breath.
Restlessness.
Anxiety.
Advanced stage:
Extreme shortness of breath.
Noisy, moist respirations.
Cough with frothy, pink-tinged sputum.
Profuse perspiration.
Rapid heart rate.
Gray complexion.
Extreme anxiety.
Acute stage:
Decreased level of consciousness.
Shock (blood pressure drops, and client may lose consciousness).
Follow activity as ordered, with planned rest periods.
Restrict sodium. (Provide "Restrict Sodium" handout.)
Weigh daily for early detection of fluid retention.
Sleep with head of bed elevated (place head of bed on 10-inch blocks).
Avoid people with upper respiratory infections.
Notify doctor if the following symptoms occur:
Change in sputum characteristics.
Decreased activity tolerance.
Increased cough or chest fullness.
Noisy, moist breathing.
Swelling of lower extremities.
Call an ambulance and notify physician. (Have emergency number next to the phone.)
Sit with head and shoulders up and feet down to favor pooling of the blood to the lower dependent portions of the body.
Do not panic. (Family members should provide emotional support to decrease anxiety.)
Respiratory failure.
Cardiac arrest.