Case Study: Russell's Heart Failure, COPD, and Nursing Interventions

This report presents a detailed analysis of a nursing case study involving Russell, a 68-year-old truck driver with heart failure and a history of COPD and a previous heart attack. The report addresses the risk factors contributing to Russell's heart failure, including high cholesterol, smoking, and COPD, while also exploring the pathophysiology of both left-sided and right-sided heart failure, linking clinical presentations to underlying pathologies. The report further explains the term 'acute exacerbation of COPD,' detailing the underlying mechanisms. Additionally, the report examines the pharmacology of medications prescribed to Russell, including perindopril, spironolactone, and budesonide/fomoterol, discussing their mechanisms of action, potential complications, and nursing considerations. Finally, the report outlines essential nursing interventions to manage Russell's condition, focusing on blood pressure monitoring, diet, COPD prevention, pneumonia prevention, and cholesterol reduction.