The nurse is developing a program to support patients with cardiac valve disease, both before and after surgical intervention

Question

For this program to be holistic, members from which disciplines should be included on the planning committee? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply. 1. Dieticians
2. Nurses and health care providers
3. Laboratory technicians
4. Psychologists/psychiatrists
5. Pharmacists

Answer 1

1,2,4,5
Rationale 1: When cardiac valve disease is complicated by congestion, a symptom of heart failure, counseling on diet and fluid restriction is necessary. The dietician can provide education about salt restriction and assist in developing satisfying meals that do not increase the risk of fluid retention.
Rationale 2: Nurses are pivotal in the coordination of the health care team and nursing management. It is essential that the health care provider monitor the progress of the valve disease and determine when surgical intervention is necessary.
Rationale 3: Laboratory technicians are involved in care only at the direction of other practitioners who are already represented on the committee.
Rationale 4: Psychiatric counseling may be necessary to assist in lifestyle adjustments necessitated by a chronic disease process.
Rationale 5: Because medication is an essential part of the management of valve disorders, the role of the pharmacist is crucial in educating the patient about how to manage the medications and their side effects.