An 87-year-old patient is being treated for sepsis. What interventions should the nurse include in this patient's plan of care to adjust for age-related changes in cardiovascular status?
Select all that apply.
1. restricting fluids
2. monitoring for tachycardia
3. encouraging increased physical activity
4. planning rest periods between physical activities
5. maintaining the head of the bed at a 30-degree angle
Correct Answer: 2, 4
One age-related change in the cardiovascular system is a reduction in myocardial efficiency and contractility. Cardiac output decreases under physiologic stress, resulting in tachycardia that lasts longer. The patient may require rest time between physical activities. Restricting fluids will not help with age-related changes in the cardiovascular system. Encouraging physical activity can lead to additional symptoms because of age-related changes to the myocardium. There is no need to maintain the head of the bed at a 30-degree angle.
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