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A patient with a left ventricular assist device has been hospitalized for 5 days. A nurse notes anasarca and skin breakdown over multiple pressure points. When addressing the patient's nutritional needs, which of the following should the nurse consider?
Protein calorie malnutrition (PCM) is a condition that occurs when the body does not get enough protein and calories to meet its needs. PCM can affect the immune system, wound healing, and organ function. Patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) are at risk of PCM due to increased metabolic demands, fluid retention, inflammation, and poor appetite. Edema, or swelling, is a common sign of fluid overload in patients with LVADs. However, edema can also mask the physical signs of PCM, such as muscle wasting, weight loss, and skin changes. Therefore, the nurse should consider edema as a potential factor that can interfere with the assessment of the patient's nutritional status. Other methods to evaluate the patient's nutritional needs include laboratory tests, dietary intake, and body mass index. The nurse should also collaborate with a dietitian to provide appropriate nutritional interventions for the patient, such as oral supplements, enteral feeding, or parenteral nutrition.
Caring for patients with a left ventricular assist device, page 28.
Ventricular assist device (VAD) - Mayo Clinic, under ''Why it's done''.
Preoperative Nutritional Optimization and Physical Exercise for ..., under ''Introduction''.
Obesity in Patients with Advanced Heart Failure and Left Ventricular ..., under ''Introduction''.