INTERVENTION- Daily administration of low dose aspirin, low dose heparin, nutritional management , control of hypertension in the patient and administration of antibiotics to prevent upper respiratory tract infection from occuring.
Rationale- Studies have revealed that prophylactic administration of low dose aspirin is highly effective and safe in preventing the development of respiratory problems from pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis by the patient (Br J Anaesth 2001; 87: 608–24). Daily administration of 75mg aspirin will prevent the formation of clots in the circulation. Also, the daily administration of low dose heparin to the patient has been said to be highly effective in preventing formation of deep venous thrombus which could lead to respiratory problems (Br J Anaesth 2001; 87: 608–24). Malnutrition is likely to be present in this patient which could explain the anaemic status. Studies about the nutritional status in the elderly revealed that some had low haemoglobin and albumin levels (Br J Anaesth 2001; 87: 608–24) this could be due to the immobility, social isolation and dementia. Also, severe anaemia is one of the causes of heart failure. The major presentation of heart failure is shortness of breath and easy fatigability which are evident respiratory symptoms. Hypertension that is not well managed could result into heart failure which is one of its complications (M. Boyd et al 2005). Also, the administration of antibiotics to combat upper respiratory tract infection is helpful.
A respiratory therapist can assist with various respiratory exercises and tests such as spirometary to have a firsthand information on the state of the respiratory systems. The nurses will continue nursing care while the laboratory scientists will continue with the different laboratory investigations.
SUBJECTIVE
-Patient taking the medications
-Patient feeding well
-Patient not depressed
OBJECTIVE
-The blood pressure reading revealing normotension, hypotension or hypertension
-PCV results showing if patient is anaemin or not
-Weighing scales to konw if she has gained weight
-INR value
