Nursing care of the patient with pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade
DOI: https:// doi. org / 10.56496 / AKMZ7387
Kai Dillenburger-Keenan, BSc, RVN, CertVNECC
ENVELOPE kaidk @ me. com
Kai graduated in 2020 with a BSc in veterinary nursing. She worked in general practice in her home of Northern Ireland for 18 months, then relocated to Yorkshire to expand her nursing skills in a referral hospital. She has since completed her emergency and critical care certificate with VetsNow and has started a PhD on the topic of canine obesity.
ABSTRACT Pericardial effusion and the subsequent development of cardiac tamponade are life-threatening emergencies that require prompt recognition and intervention to prevent cardiovascular collapse and multi-organ dysfunction.
This article provides an overview of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation and nursing management of cardiac tamponade in small animal patients, with a particular focus on the role of the veterinary nurse( VN) before, during and after pericardiocentesis.
Common clinical signs associated with impaired cardiac filling and reduced cardiac output are discussed, including tachycardia, hypotension, respiratory compromise, muffled heart sounds and signs of poor peripheral perfusion. The importance of rapid assessment and diagnostic imaging in differentiating cardiac tamponade from other emergency presentations is emphasised.
The article outlines the VN ' s responsibilities in preparing for and assisting with pericardiocentesis, including equipment preparation, patient advocacy, analgesia provision, oxygen supplementation and close physiological monitoring. Potential complications such as arrhythmias, haemorrhage and infection are explored, and the need for vigilant monitoring using electrocardiography, blood pressure measurement and pulse oximetry is highlighted.
Post-procedural nursing care is examined in detail, with an emphasis on intensive monitoring, oxygen therapy, fluid balance assessment and ongoing pain management. The article concludes by reinforcing the critical contribution of skilled nursing care, effective communication and multidisciplinary teamwork in optimising patient outcomes following pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade.
Keywords pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, pericardiocentesis, cardiovascular monitoring
42 Veterinary Nursing Journal