Keywords

paripartum cardiomyopathy, PPCM, pregnancy

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), the fifth leading cause of death in pregnancy, is often overlooked or misdiagnosed because of vague symptoms and a lack of specific criteria for diagnosis. The authors performed a literature review of articles published between January 2000 and November 2007, and found that early diagnosis via echocardiography and interventions with specific treatment modalities can reduce mortality. Dobutamine stress testing may be prognostic for left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Standard heart failure (HF) drug regimens, heart transplantation, and mechanical assist devices are viable treatment modalities, depending on individual needs. Subsequent pregnancies must be followed closely. The authors recommend that nurse practitioners (NPs) be vigilant when assessing patients for PPCM and refer such patients to specialists as soon as possible.

Original Publication Citation

Goss, J. A., Bond, A. E., Beckstrand, R. L., & Callister, L. (2008). Peripartum cardiomyopathy: an integrative literature review. American Journal for Nurse Practitioners, 12(5), 49-55.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2008-5

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/8039

Publisher

The American Journal for Nurse Practitioners

Language

English

College

Nursing

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Download

Share

COinS