title: Penetrating cardiac trauma: surgical and nursing management.
abstract: Penetrating cardiac injuries occur not only in military settings, but also in the civilian arena. This article focuses on the incidence, etiology, and pathophysiology of gunshot wounds and stabbing injuries. Diagnosis, treatment, and surgical approaches of penetrating cardiac injuries are presented. A clinical case study of a left ventricular stabbing injury is described and relevant nursing interventions and follow-up care addressed.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Fitzpatrick
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures; D003422:Critical Care; D006335:Heart Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008134:Long-Term Care; D008297:Male; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D014950:Wounds, Penetrating / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy