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MaddyHenderson.pptxEchocardiogram
Maddy Henderson
Lab and Diagnostic
Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing
Why an Eco?
Echocardiogram is used to assess the structure and function of the heart
An echocardiogram is used to assess many heart abnormalities such as:
Heart murmur
Assess valve stenosis, regurgitation and prosthetic
Surveillance of endocarditis, ischemic heart disease, and cardiomyopathy
An echocardiogram can be done in two different ways
Transthoracic echocardiography – non invasive and gives a good picture of the heart’s structure and function
Transoesophageal echocardiography – probe is placed down the throat to be able to view the smaller structures in the heart, but it is more invasive.
How is an echocardiogram done?
Echocardiogram uses sound waves to detect structures in the heart. It can’t be done when bone or air pockets are in the way – so electrodes have to be placed very purposely to get around the ribs and lungs to look at the heart.
Echocardiogram can take 2D stills and motion pictures and visual blood movement through the heart chambers and valves.
Normal findings
Normal appearance in the size, position, structure, and movement of the heart valves visualized and recorded in the combination of ultrasound modes. Normal heart muscle walls of both ventricles and left atrium, with adequate blood filling.
Abnormal findings
There is a plethora of abnormal findings in an echocardiogram such as problems with the values or back flow of blood. Here is one example.
“Moderate mitral regurgitation”
- Mitral annular dilation with tenting of mitral leaflet resulting in a moderate central jet of function regurgitation.
Factors in an Echo:
Excess adipose tissue
Too much or too little conductive gel
Improper placement of electrodes
Patient Teaching:
Before the echo
Provide an explanation for the purpose of the procedure.
Prepare the patient on the type of echocardiogram they will be having.
During the test
Position the patient in the supine position and make them comfortable so they won’t move around.
Place the electrodes on a bare chest with a proper amount of conductive gel.
Change the position of the patient to get different views of the heart.
Possible Nursing Diagnoses
- Decreased cardiac output related to heart murmur.
- Activity intolerance related to decreased pumping ability.
- Risk for impaired cardiovascular function.
Follow up:
Once the patient receives their results it is important to follow up with ways they can improve their cardiac function.
Some will need to change their diet, eat healthy, and start exercising.
Others will be put on medication and will need to understand the importance of medication adherence.
Others will require more test and possibly surgery to correct the abnormality.
Schedule a yearly check up to see if interventions are useful.
Since a transthoracic echocardiogram has very few risks there are not ethical dilemmas.
References:
Armstrong, S. (2018). Echocardiography basics for the nurse in the cardiovascular care. British Journal of Cardiac Nursing, 13(7), 324-329. Retrieved April 11, 2019.
Chernecky, C. C., & Berger, B. J. (2013). Laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures. Elsevier.
M., V. L., & Bladh, M. L. (2016). Textbook of laboratory and diagnostic testing: Practical application at the bedside. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis Company.
