how I understand carditis . . .

Hi NURSING.com, This is a common scenario that I ran into all the time during my first year of nursing. A 72 year old male from the houseless community arrives at the ED complaining of symptoms like general malaise, fatigue, and weight loss. He seems a little confused, and upon physical assessment shows an elevated temperature, left sided weakness, facial drooping, and a heart murmur. He’s what the nurses call a “frequent flier” and has been treated on previous visits to the ED for withdrawal symptoms, and infections related to recreational IV drug use. This may not sound like a case that would used for teaching about carditis, but there are a few signs and symptoms that may change how you look at is.  I'll share one concerning item now . . .  During the assessment the nurse identified confusion, left-sided weakness, and facial drooping. These are typical signs and symptoms of a stroke. Stroke is a major complication that can manifest from endocarditis. Emboli can break off from vegetation on heart valves and travel to the brain and cause stroke. Cardiac image of a heart inside the chest cavity There are other potential signs and symptoms that carditis may be a factor as well.  I just release an article that can help run through this scenario and you can read it here.  I hope this helps in identifying and being more aware of carditis . . . now go out and be your best self today. ♥ Happy Nursing! -Jon Haws NURSING.com, 11918 Division Street #2114, PORTLAND, Oregon 97266, United States