Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Cardiomyopathies alter the structure and function of the ventricular myocardium. Dilated cardiomyopathy stretches and thins the walls (systolic failure). Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy thickens the septum (outflow obstruction). Restrictive cardiomyopathy stiffens the walls (diastolic failure). Connect Cardiomyopathy Basics to bedside cues you will reassess first: vitals trends, work of breathing, perfusion, mentation, and pain or ischemic equivalents when relevant. Boards reward recognizing when subtle instability outweighs reassurance, then selecting nursing actions that protect airway, circulation, and neurologic status before routine tasks.