Ebstein Anomaly: An Overview for Nursing

• Illustrate the premise of the defect and considerations in care related to the alterations in cardiac anatomy.
• Explore issues that arise with the electrical conduction of the heart with this anomaly.
• Describe common symptomatology and presentations.
• Depict treatment modalities and nursing care for medically managed and surgically managed patients.
• Implications for post-hospitalization care and education for patients and families.

Ebstein anomaly is a rare congenital heart defect. Many nurses have probably never encountered this anomaly, with very few able to accurately depict the pathological anatomy of the condition. As technology further develops, providers are better equipped to recognize and manage Ebstein anomaly. There are important considerations for nurses when caring for an individual with Ebstein anomaly. The aim of this article is to give an overview of the condition exploring the pathophysiology, how patients typically present, and how to effectively care for a patient with Ebstein anomaly regarding medical and surgical courses of treatment. It is important for nurses to have a resource to reference on Ebstein anomaly, and the majority of current literature is solely based for medical providers. Furthermore, Ebstein patients may be seen on a variety of units in the hospital beyond cardiology (i.e., pregnant patient with a diagnosis of Ebstein anomaly).