Pericarditis Nursing Diagnosis – NCLEX Quick Guide

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Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardial sac, causing sharp chest pain and a pericardial friction rub. Nurses play a vital role in early recognition, pain relief, and monitoring cardiac function.

Key Cues to Remember:

  • Sharp, pleuritic chest pain relieved by sitting forward
  • Friction rub over the left lower sternal border
  • ST-segment elevation on ECG
  • Low-grade fever and fatigue

Nursing Priorities

  • Relieve pain and anxiety
  • Maintain adequate oxygenation
  • Monitor ECG and vital signs
  • Educate the patient on rest and medication adherence

Nursing Care Plan #1 – Acute Pain

Diagnosis: Acute pain related to inflammation of the pericardium.
Interventions:

  • Position upright or leaning forward.
  • Administer NSAIDs as ordered.
  • Assess pain using a standardized scale.
  • Encourage rest.
    Outcome: Patient reports reduced pain and demonstrates comfort.

Nursing Care Plan #2 – Decreased Cardiac Output

Diagnosis: Decreased cardiac output related to impaired ventricular filling.
Interventions:

  • Monitor heart rate, BP, and ECG.
  • Evaluate for signs of poor perfusion.
  • Maintain IV access for medication administration.
    Outcome: Stable vital signs and improved perfusion.

Nursing Care Plan #3 – Knowledge Deficit

Diagnosis: Knowledge deficit related to limited understanding of disease process and management.
Interventions:

  • Provide education about medications and rest.
  • Explain the importance of follow-up care.
  • Instruct to seek medical help if chest pain recurs.
    Outcome: Patient verbalizes understanding of the condition and management.

Grab our Cardiac Care Plan Bundle

Quick FAQs

1. What is the best position for a patient with pericarditis?
Sitting upright or leaning forward relieves discomfort.

2. Which medications are typically prescribed?
NSAIDs, colchicine, or short-term corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

3. What ECG change is typical?
Diffuse ST elevation across multiple leads.

Peer-Reviewed References

  1. Ignatavicius & Workman. Medical-Surgical Nursing.
  2. Lewis et al. Medical-Surgical Nursing.
  3. Brunner & Suddarth. Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing.
  4. American Nurse Journal. Clinical Case: Pericarditis.