Final answer:
The client's hemodynamic readings indicate a risk of heart failure, cor pulmonale, pulmonary hypertension, and peripheral edema. Elevated PAWP and CVP suggest poor heart pumping efficiency and increased central venous pressure, which can also cause fluid accumulation in tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse is caring for a client receiving hemodynamic monitoring with specific readings: Pulmonary Artery Systolic pressure (PAS) 34 mm Hg, Pulmonary Artery Diastolic pressure (PAD) 21 mm Hg, Pulmonary Artery Wedge Pressure (PAWP) 16 mm Hg, and Central Venous Pressure (CVP) 12 mm Hg. The client is at risk for several conditions based on these readings.
- Heart failure: Elevated PAWP and CVP indicate that the client could be at risk as these values suggest that the heart may not be pumping effectively.
- Cor pulmonale: Elevated PAS and PAWP suggest the right side of the heart is under strain, possibly from chronic pulmonary hypertension, which can lead to cor pulmonale.
- Pulmonary hypertension: High PAS and PAD readings indicate the client may be experiencing increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
- Peripheral edema: High CVP is a sign of increased central venous pressure which can cause fluid to accumulate in the peripheral tissues, leading to edema.
Considering these risks, the medical team would focus on treatments to manage these potential conditions, monitoring the patient's hemodynamic status closely, and adjusting therapy accordingly to optimize cardiac function and reduce the risks associated with these abnormal hemodynamic readings.