Question

Mr. Reynolds, age 65, is slowly recovering from a recent heart attack. He has a history of emphysema but is having more difficulty breathing. He dislikes medications and any form of therapy.

Question 1 Using normal anatomy and physiology, discuss how impaired ventilation can interfere with cardiac recovery and function. Answers may vary.

Question 2 Based on the patient’s medical history and his feelings about recovery programs, in conjunction with the patient’s need for medications and other therapies, discuss the need for medication and participation in recovery programs and possible strategies and the roles of other professionals in support of his recovery from the heart attack and to manage his respiratory condition.

Answer 1

1) There is significant correlation between pulmonary emphysema and cardiovascular diseases. Pulmonary emphysema results in hyper inflation of lungs. This leads to positive intra thoracic pressure that causes decrease in blood flow to the heart. Impaired ventilation in lungs also decreases the oxygen content of blood. So, the recovery of cardiac muscles is impaired in pulmonary emphysema.

2) medications must be taken strictly and regularly for smooth recovery from cardiovascular event in patients with emphysema. Lung hyper inflation and decreased oxygen content in blood delay the recovery process if medications or not taken properly. The help of other health care professionals like psychologists, occupational therapist, medical social worker, and dietician can also be sought.