Specific Disease Indicators

CARDIAC

       Short of breath at rest

        Ejection fraction 20% or less

        Oxygen dependent

        If CHF: peripheral edema/ascites

        If ASCVD: history of angina/MI's

 

ALZHEIMER'S & PARKINSON'S

        Level 7-C on FAST scale (unable to ambulate or

            communicate intelligently, incontinent)

        History of frequent infections or skin breakdown

        Difficulty swallowing, may have congestion

        Significant weight loss past several months

 

LIVER DISEASE

        Enlarged liver with significantly abnormal liver    enzymes

        Jaundice, ascites and edema

        Requires considerable assistance with ADL's

 

COPD/LUNG DISEASE

        Short of breath at rest

        Oxygen dependent

        Elevated PCO2 >50 mm Hg.

        Increase frequency and severity of infections

        Cor pulmonate

        Medication doesn't relieve symptoms

 

RENAL FAILURE

        Discontinued or refuses dialysis

        BUN/creatinine significantly elevated

        Oxygen dependent

 

DEBILITY, UNSPECIFIED

        Frequent infection/complications

        Multiple organ systems dysfunction

        Significant CNS impairment but insufficient number

            of end-stage neurological criteria

        Significant cardiopulmonary failure but insufficient

            end-stage cardiovascular criteria

 

END-STAGE DIABETES

        Severe vascular insufficiencies/ulcers/wounds

        Frequent infections

        Unstable blood sugars/frequent changes

        Required considerable assistance with ADL's