Observation and nursing care for right ventricular dysfunction after heart transplantation

Objective To summarize the nursing care experience for right ventricular dysfunction after orthotopic heart transplantation.Methods Clinical data of 67 patients underwent heart transplantation were retrospectively analyzed from January 2007 to December 2010.Results 58 patients were discharged after they were cured,9 patients died.67 patients were affected by different degrees of increasing central venous pressure (CVP)early postoperation and right ventricular dysfunction,28 cases received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation(ECMO) assistant,6 cases received continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT).Among 58 discharged patients,the heart function level showed class two in 54 cases and class three in 4 cases.Conclusions After heart transplantation,followed with intensive care and close observation of right heart failure symptoms,providing effective care and support,active prevention and treatment for right heart failure,maintaining vital organs function were key to successful heart transplantation. Key words: Heart transplantation;  Right ventricular dysfunction;  Care