Authors

  1. Thomas, Elizabeth RN, CCRN, CEN
  2. Golden, Pamela APRN-BC, MSN, RN, CCRN, TCRN, TNS
  3. Moran, Vicki PhD, RN

Abstract

Acute pericarditis is the most common form of pericardial disease worldwide and it has many potential etiologies. This case study examines a patient admitted for multiple gunshot wounds who developed acute pericarditis postpericardial drain removal. The initial penetrating abdominal trauma, along with facial injuries and a suspected myocardial infarction, led to confusion in which the initial etiology of pericarditis was missed, creating a delay in overall patient care and extended length of stay.