Aortic Aneurysm Pathochart

Aortic aneurysms, dilations or outpouchings in the aorta, are often caused by hypertension, which weakens the vessel wall and creates a high risk of rupture. They can also result from connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Patients may experience symptoms such as chest pain, often described as a burning sensation radiating to the back, shoulder, abdomen, flank, or groin, along with weakness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Physical findings include a visible or palpable pulsating abdominal mass, systolic bruit, and possibly cool, pale, diaphoretic skin. Nursing care involves thorough pain and abdominal assessments, monitoring vital signs and hemodynamics, managing pain, and administering antihypertensives to control blood pressure. It's crucial to assess for signs of rupture or shock, which necessitates immediate surgical intervention​​. This nursing cheatsheet will help you learn about Aortic Aneurysms and their management in nursing care.