A Case of Detailed Assessment and Family-Empowered Nursing for Radiofrequency Ablation in an Adolescent with Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy
Fan Ying
Children’s Hospital, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710068, China.
Chen Jing
Children’s Hospital, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710068, China.
Song Xue
Children’s Hospital, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710068, China.
Zhang Xipin *
Children’s Hospital, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710068, China.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Objective: To summarise innovative perioperative nursing experiences in a paediatric case of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) undergoing radiofrequency ablation and to explore the effectiveness of a family-empowerment-oriented refined nursing model.
Methods: For a paediatric patient with ACM, the following specialised nursing interventions were implemented in addition to routine care: (1) a refined “Symptoms-Medication-Activity” assessment chart was established to enable objective quantitative monitoring; (2) child-friendly concepts and peer support strategies were used for psychological intervention; (3) tiered early warning management based on MEWS scores was implemented to prevent complications; and (4) a family-centred “hospital-home” seamless continuity-of-care plan was established, including illustrated home-management manuals, WeChat follow-up groups and long-term follow-up records.
Results: Through multidisciplinary collaboration and the aforementioned innovative nursing practices, the patient’s preoperative anxiety decreased significantly (VAS score reduced from 7 to 3). The surgery proceeded smoothly, with no complications. The 6-minute walk distance improved significantly at 72 hours postoperatively. The patient was discharged in stable condition on the fifth postoperative day. At the 3-month post-discharge follow-up, cardiac function was normal and family caregiving capacity had markedly improved.
Conclusion: For paediatric patients with ACM undergoing radiofrequency ablation, a refined, personalised care model centred on family empowerment may effectively support surgical safety, alleviate negative emotions, promote recovery and enhance long-term family health-management capability. This approach may provide a useful reference for clinical nursing practice.
Keywords: Adolescent, arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, radiofrequency ablation, perioperative nursing, family empowerment, refined assessment, psychological support, early warning score, continuity of care, rehabilitation