Case Study #2 - Anyone Who Had a Heart

Part VI—Brianna: Conclusion

1. Does this diagnosis fit Brianna’s vital signs?

Yes. VSD causes increased heart rates which Brianna exhibited, fast breathing, and paleness
(blueness).

2. What created Brianna’s heart murmur?

The hole in her heart between the right and left ventricles. The blood flowing between the hole gave
off the murmur.

3. Why is Brianna’s blood pressure lower than Christopher’s?

Brianna's heart is not pumping the same amount of blood as Christopher's heart is because of the
hole. The pressure is lower because of the lack of flowing blood.

4. Is it reasonable that Brianna’s arterial PO2 is the same as Christopher’s?

Yes. Brianna is still receiving oxygenated blood.

5. Why is Brianna breathing rapidly and deeply?

Trying harder to get oxygen to the body due to the ventricle septal defect.

6. Do you think Brianna’s blood pressure is normal? Explain your answer.

No, because of inadequate blood flow.

7. Why is Brianna congested?

Because the heart murmurs are making it hard for oxygen to reach all over her body.
8. What is the long-term treatment for Brianna’s condition?

She might have to take medications to keep her heartbeat regular, increase the strength of her heart
contractions and decrease the amount of fluid in her circulation to reduce the volume of blood that
must be pumped.