Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) is a prevalent congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal opening in the septum, the wall that separates the heart's lower chambers or ventricles. This article aims to shed light on the intricacies of VSD, exploring its causes, manifestations, diagnosis, and contemporary management strategies.
Understanding Ventricular Septal Defect:
- Congenital Origin: VSD is present at birth, arising during fetal development when the septum fails to form completely, leaving an opening between the ventricles.
- Size and Location: The size and location of the VSD significantly impact its clinical manifestations and severity. Smaller defects may close spontaneously, while larger ones can cause substantial issues with cardiac function.
Manifestations of Ventricular Septal Defect:
- Heart Murmurs: The turbulent blood flow through the VSD creates a distinctive heart murmur that healthcare professionals can detect during a physical examination.
- Poor Weight Gain: Infants with VSD may experience difficulty feeding, leading to inadequate weight gain.
- Frequent Respiratory Infections: Children with VSD are more susceptible to respiratory infections due to altered blood flow patterns and increased workload on the heart.
- Heart Failure: In severe cases, VSD can contribute to heart failure, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, rapid breathing, and fluid retention.
Diagnosis of Ventricular Septal Defect:
- Echocardiography: This non-invasive imaging technique uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart, allowing healthcare professionals to visualize the VSD and assess its size and location.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): An ECG measures the electrical activity of the heart, helping identify abnormal patterns associated with VSD.
- Chest X-ray: X-ray images can reveal changes in heart size and blood vessel patterns, providing additional diagnostic information.
related to an inadequate supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.
Outcome:
- Growth and development are not compromised
- Weight and height of the ideal
Nursing Interventions:
- Monitor height and weight scales every day with the same tools and the same time and documented in the form of graphs.
- Allow the child to rest and avoid frequent disturbances during sleep.
Rational:
- Knowing the weight change.
- Sleep can accelerate the growth and development of children.
Source : http://pediatricnurses.blogspot.co.id/2012/11/nursing-diagnosis-delayed-growth-and.html
Bibliography:
1. Webb, G., Gatzoulis, M. A., & Daubeney, P. (2006). Diagnosis and management of congenital heart disease in adults. Oxford University Press.
2. Anderson, R. H., Baker, E. J., Macartney, F. J., & Rigby, M. L. (2009). Pediatric Cardiology. Elsevier Health Sciences.
3. Warnes, C. A., Liberthson, R., Danielson, G. K., Dore, A., Harris, L., Hoffman, J. I., ... & Webb, G. D. (2001). Task force 1: the changing profile of congenital heart disease in adult life. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 37(5), 1170-1175. doi: 10.1016/S0735-1097(01)01272-4