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Writer's pictureNursing School Jewels

Med Surg Case Study #3

Presenting Complaint: A 62-year-old male patient arrives at the clinic with a complaint of persistent fatigue and dizziness. He reports occasional episodes of near-fainting and shortness of breath during physical activities.


Patient Background: The patient is a 62-year-old retired school teacher with a past medical history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and a family history of heart disease. He is a non-smoker, does not consume alcohol excessively, and leads a relatively sedentary lifestyle. He reports no recent changes in medication or significant lifestyle changes.


Assessment: Upon examination, the patient's vital signs reveal the following:

  • Blood pressure: 140/80 mm Hg

  • Heart rate: 48 beats per minute

  • Respiratory rate: 16 breaths per minute

  • Temperature: 98.6°F (37°C)

  • Oxygen saturation: 98% on room air

The patient appears pale, and his skin is cool to touch. Auscultation reveals a regular heart rhythm with a heart rate of 48 beats per minute. No murmurs or abnormal heart sounds are detected. Lung sounds are clear, and there are no signs of respiratory distress. The patient's neurological examination is unremarkable, with no focal deficits noted.


1. What could be the possible diagnosis for this patient's presentation?


2. What diagnostic tests would you recommend to confirm the diagnosis?


3. What additional diagnostics might be necessary to identify the underlying cause of this diagnosis?


4. What treatment options should be considered for this patient.


See answers below





Med Surg Notebook





Answers

1. What could be the possible diagnosis for this patient's presentation?

  • The possible diagnosis for this patient's presentation is Sinus Bradycardia.

2. What diagnostic tests would you recommend to confirm the diagnosis?

  • To confirm the diagnosis of Sinus Bradycardia, an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) should be performed. Sinus Bradycardia is characterized by a heart rate less than 60 beats per minute, with normal P-wave morphology on the ECG.

3. What additional diagnostics might be necessary to identify the underlying cause of this diagnosis?

  • Additional diagnostics may include blood tests to assess thyroid function (TSH and T4 levels), as thyroid disorders can lead to bradycardia. An echocardiogram may also be considered to assess the cardiac structure and function, as well as ruling out structural abnormalities.

4. What treatment options should be considered for this patient?

  • The treatment for Sinus Bradycardia depends on the underlying cause. In this patient's case, if no reversible cause is identified, treatment options may include medication adjustments or the placement of a pacemaker to maintain an appropriate heart rate.


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