Pericarditis Nursing Care Plan

Pericarditis Nursing Care Plan: Printable Study Guide for Students

Overview

Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, the heart’s outer lining. Nursing students should understand its causes, assessment cues, and how to create accurate care plans. This guide breaks it down simply — perfect for study or clinical reference.

Quick Assessment Checklist

  • Sharp chest pain, worse lying flat, better when leaning forward

  • Pericardial friction rub on auscultation

  • Low-grade fever, fatigue, shortness of breath

  • ECG: ST elevation in multiple leads

Nursing Care Plans

Nursing Care Plan #1 – Acute Pain

Diagnosis: Acute pain related to pericardial inflammation.
Interventions:

  • Elevate head of bed; position leaning forward.

  • Administer prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs.

  • Provide rest and calm environment.

  • Monitor pain relief response.
    Outcome: Patient reports decreased pain and improved comfort.

Nursing Care Plan #2 – Ineffective Breathing Pattern

Diagnosis: Ineffective breathing pattern due to chest discomfort.
Interventions:

  • Maintain high-Fowler’s position.

  • Monitor oxygen levels and provide O₂ as needed.

  • Encourage relaxation and slow breathing.
    Outcome: Respirations become regular; oxygen saturation improves.

Nursing Care Plan #3 – Anxiety

Diagnosis: Anxiety related to chest pain and uncertainty.
Interventions:

  • Offer reassurance and clear explanations.

  • Encourage participation in care.

  • Use relaxation techniques.
    Outcome: Anxiety decreases; patient shows calm behavior.

Nursing Care Plan #4 – Knowledge Deficit

Diagnosis: Lack of understanding about condition and medication.
Interventions:

  • Educate on drug regimen (NSAIDs, colchicine).

  • Emphasize importance of follow-up and rest.

  • Teach signs that need medical attention.
    Outcome: Patient demonstrates understanding of care plan.

🩺 Study Tip / Download CTA

Looking for a ready-to-use printable? Check out our Cardiac Care Plans Bundle — a complete set of nursing care plans for heart conditions, including Pericarditis, Coronary Artery Disease, and Heart Failure.

These professional study tools are printable but not free.

FAQs

1. What are common symptoms of pericarditis?
Sharp chest pain and a scratchy friction rub are classic findings.

2. How is pericarditis managed?
With anti-inflammatory medications, rest, and patient monitoring.

3. Can I include this in my care plan assignment?
Yes — be sure to describe assessment cues, interventions, and rationales.

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. Acute Pericarditis Management.

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