Heart Failure – Acute (as cause of severe SOB)

For the dyspneic patient in extremis, suspect Acute Heart Failure if:

  • Bibasilar rales  —  main finding to seek
  • Jugular venous distention / hepatojugular reflux
  • arrhythmias
  • S3 or S4 gallops
  • murmurs of significant valvular disease
  • pedal edema
Stabilizing Measures:
  • Call 911.  Give O2.
  • Furosemide IV
  • EKG if available
  • Rx ASA 325 mg p.o. if age for Coronary Disease
  • Have Automatic External Defibrillator available

See posting Acute Dyspnea – 1.