Cardiomyopathy
Structured condition card with NCLEX priority cues and nursing action focus.
Cardiachigh priorityneeds review
Cardiomyopathy
Also testable as: Dilated cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Restrictive cardiomyopathy
Etiology / Pathophysiology
- Genetic, ischemic, viral, toxic, pregnancy-related, hypertensive, or infiltrative causes can weaken or stiffen heart muscle.
- The heart muscle cannot fill, squeeze, or relax effectively, leading to low output or congestion.
Medications
| Class | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Diuretics | May reduce fluid overload in heart failure symptoms. |
| Beta blockers | May reduce workload and support rhythm/rate control in selected plans. |
| ACE inhibitors / ARBs | May support afterload and remodeling management in selected plans. |
Nursing actions
- Assess dyspnea, edema, fatigue, weight gain, lung sounds, pulses, and activity tolerance.
- Monitor rhythm changes and signs of poor perfusion.
- Teach daily weights, sodium/fluid plan if ordered, medication adherence, and when to report worsening symptoms.
Complications
- Heart failure
- Dysrhythmias
- Thromboembolism
- Sudden cardiac death
NCLEX cues
- New dyspnea, edema, S3, weight gain.
- Syncope or palpitations in hypertrophic disease is priority.
Memory hooks
- Cardiomyopathy means muscle problem first.
Labs / Diagnostics
- Echocardiogram
- BNP
- ECG
- Chest imaging
- Cardiac MRI or genetic testing when ordered
Review notes
- Supplemental wife-requested study card. Use for NCLEX review only and verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy.