Show
Recommended textbook solutions
 The Language of Composition: Reading, Writing, Rhetoric2nd EditionLawrence Scanlon, Renee H. Shea, Robin Dissin Aufses 661 solutions
Technical Writing for Success3rd EditionDarlene Smith-Worthington, Sue Jefferson 468 solutions Technical Writing for Success3rd EditionDarlene Smith-Worthington, Sue Jefferson 468 solutions Technical Writing for Success3rd EditionDarlene Smith-Worthington, Sue Jefferson 468 solutions Full Text Access for Subscribers:Not a Subscriber?Department: upFront: CLINICAL DO'S & DON'TS Evans, Michael M. RN, CMSRN, CNS, MSN; Evans, Milton RN, MS; Lashinski, Keith RN; Franklin, Ashley RN Michael M. Evans and Milton Evans are instructors of nursing at the Pennsylvania State University Worthington Scranton campus in
Dunmore, Pa. Keith Lashinski is a staff nurse in the cardiothoracic ICU at Mercy Hospital, and Ashley Franklin is a staff nurse in the ICU at Moses Taylor Hospital, both in Scranton, Pa. doi: 10.1097/01.NURSE.0000363366.10288.cd DiagnosisAbdominal aortic aneurysms are often found when a physical exam is done for another reason or during routine medical tests, such as an ultrasound of the heart or abdomen. To diagnose an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a doctor will examine you and review your medical and family history. If your doctor thinks that you may have an aortic aneurysm, imaging tests are done to confirm the diagnosis. Tests to diagnose an abdominal aortic aneurysm include:
Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysmBeing male and smoking significantly increase the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm. Screening recommendations vary, but in general:
There isn't enough evidence to determine whether women ages 65 to 75 who ever smoked cigarettes or have a family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm would benefit from abdominal aortic aneurysm screening. Ask your doctor if you need to have an ultrasound screening based on your risk factors. Women who have never smoked generally don't need to be screened for the condition. TreatmentThe goal of abdominal aortic aneurysm treatment is to prevent an aneurysm from rupturing. Treatment may involve careful monitoring or surgery. Which treatment you have depends on the size of the aortic aneurysm and how fast it's growing. Medical monitoringA doctor might recommend this option, also called watchful waiting, if the abdominal aortic aneurysm is small and isn't causing symptoms. Monitoring requires regular doctor's checkups and imaging tests to determine if the aneurysm is growing and to manage other conditions, such as high blood pressure, that could worsen the aneurysm. Typically, a person who has a small, symptomless abdominal aortic aneurysm needs an abdominal ultrasound at least six months after diagnosis and at regular follow-up appointments. Surgery and other proceduresSurgery to repair an abdominal aortic aneurysm is generally recommended if the aneurysm is 1.9 to 2.2 inches (4.8 to 5.6 centimeters) or larger, or if it's growing quickly. Also, a doctor might recommend abdominal aortic aneurysm repair surgery if you have symptoms such as stomach pain or you have a leaking, tender or painful aneurysm. The type of surgery performed depends on the size and location of the aneurysm, your age, and your overall health. Abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery options may include:
Long-term survival rates are similar for both endovascular surgery and open surgery. Clinical trialsExplore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. Lifestyle and home remediesFor an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a doctor will likely suggest avoiding heavy lifting and vigorous physical activity to prevent extreme increases in blood pressure, which can put more pressure on an aneurysm. Emotional stress can raise blood pressure, so try to avoid conflict and stressful situations. If you're feeling stressed or anxious, let your doctor know so that together you can come up with the best treatment plan. Preparing for your appointmentIf you are at risk of an abdominal aortic aneurysm or having signs and symptoms of the condition, make an appointment with your family doctor. If you're having severe pain, seek emergency medical help. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment. What you can doWhen you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet. Before certain tests, you might need to avoid drinking or eating for a short time. Make a list of:
For an abdominal aortic aneurysm, questions to ask your doctor include:
Don't hesitate to ask other questions. What to expect from your doctorYour doctor is likely to ask you questions, including:
Aug. 27, 2021 What is the most common symptom in a client with abdominal aortic aneurysm?Pain is the most common symptom of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The pain associated with an abdominal aortic aneurysm may be located in the abdomen, chest, lower back, or groin area. The pain may be severe or dull. Sudden, severe pain in the back or abdomen may mean the aneurysm is about to rupture.
How do you diagnose an abdominal aortic aneurysm?Tests to diagnose an abdominal aortic aneurysm include: Abdominal ultrasound. This is the most common test to diagnose abdominal aortic aneurysms. An abdominal ultrasound is a painless test that uses sound waves to show how blood flows through the structures in the belly area, including the aorta.
Which person should the nurse identify as having the highest risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm?History. As noted (see Etiology), patients at greatest risk for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are those who are older than 65 years and have peripheral atherosclerotic vascular disease.
When assessing the abdomen What is the correct sequence and why?Assessing your patient's abdomen can provide critical information about his internal organs. Always follow this sequence: inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation. Changing the order of these assessment techniques could alter the frequency of bowel sounds and make your findings less accurate.
|
The nurse suspects an abdominal aortic aneurysm when what is assessed?
Related Posts
Copyright © 2024 SignalDuo Inc.
