Activity Intolerance

Nanda Nursing Diagnosis for Activity Intolerance

NANDA Definition: Insufficient physiological or psychological energy to endure or complete required or desired daily activities

Most activity intolerance is related to generalized weakness and debilitation secondary to acute or chronic illness and disease. This is especially apparent in elderly patients with a history of orthopedic, cardiopulmonary, diabetic, or pulmonary- related problems. The aging process itself causes reduction in muscle strength and function, which can impair the ability to maintain activity. Activity intolerance may also be related to factors such as obesity, malnourishment, side effects of medications (e.g., Beta-blockers), or emotional states such as depression or lack of confidence to exert one's self. Nursing goals are to reduce the effects of inactivity, promote optimal physical activity, and assist the patient to maintain a satisfactory lifestyle.

Defining Characteristics:

• Verbal report of fatigue or weakness
• Inability to begin or perform activity
• Abnormal heart rate or blood pressure (BP) response to activity
• Exertional discomfort or dyspnea

Related Factors:

• Generalized weakness
• Deconditioned state
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Insufficient sleep or rest periods
• Depression or lack of motivation
• Prolonged bed rest
• Imposed activity restriction
• Imbalance between oxygen supply and demand
• Pain
• Side effects of medications

Expected Outcomes

• Patient maintains activity level within capabilities, as evidenced by normal heart rate and blood pressure during activity, as well as absence of shortness of breath, weakness, and fatigue.
• Patient verbalizes and uses energy-conservation techniques.

NOC Outcomes (Nursing Outcomes Classification)
Suggested NOC LabelsActivity Tolerance

• Energy Conservation
• Knowledge: Treatment Regimen

NIC Interventions (Nursing Interventions Classification)
Suggested NIC Labels

• Energy Management
• Teaching: Prescribed Activity/Exercise