Basic Flashcards
o S1
Closure of AV valves (mitral and tricuspid); signals the beginning of systole. Loudest at the apex.
S2
Closure of semilunar valves (aortic and pulmonic); signals the end of systole. Loudest at the base.
S3
Vibrations due to rapid ventricular filling; often linked to heart failure.
Use the bell to
detect low-pitched sounds and murmurs
ECG
- Detects electrical abnormalities in heart rhythm.
- Echocardiogram: Visualizes structural issues (e.g., valve dysfunction).
Stress Testing
Assesses heart performance under exertion.
Blood Work
o Lipid profiles for atherosclerosis risk.
o D-dimer for suspected clotting disorders.
Imaging
Chest X-ray for fluid overload, vascular obstruction
Cardiac-Respiratory Interconnection
o Poor cardiac output can cause pulmonary congestion and shortness of breath.
o Pulmonary embolism can result from vascular clots originating in the heart or veins.
Differentiating GERD from Cardiac Symptoms
o GERD pain improves with antacids, while cardiac pain does not.
o Thorough health history and symptom analysis are critical for differentiation.
Patient Education & Interventions
- Promote lifestyle changes (e.g., smoking cessation, healthy diet).
- Teach proper use of medications (e.g., anticoagulants, statins).
- Emphasize importance of routine check-ups and screenings.
- Address barriers to care caused by SDoH, offering resources as needed.
Why Eat Less Sodium and Cholesterol for Heart Health?
Reduce Risk of Hypertension
Excess sodium increases blood pressure, a key risk factor for heart disease.
Lower sodium intake helps maintain normal blood pressure.
Prevent Plaque Buildup in Arteries
LDL cholesterol contributes to plaque formation in arteries, leading to atherosclerosis.
Lowering cholesterol intake reduces risks of blockages, heart attacks, and strokes.
Improve Overall Heart Function
A heart-healthy diet lessens strain on the heart, aiding efficient blood circulation.
Support Long-term Cardiovascular Health
Reduced sodium and cholesterol intake promotes healthy blood vessels and reduces inflammation.
S4
Vibrations from atrial contraction into a stiff ventricle; seen in conditions like hypertension or myocardial infarction.
Murmurs
Turbulent blood flow due to valve defects, increased blood velocity, or decreased viscosity.
Key Terms and Tests in Cardiac Assessment
- ECG/EKG: Monitors electrical activity of the heart.
o P Wave: Atrial depolarization.
o QRS Complex: Ventricular depolarization.
o T Wave: Ventricular repolarization. - Echocardiogram: Evaluates heart structure and function.
- Blood Tests: Lipid profile (cholesterol levels), BNP (heart failure marker).
- Blood Pressure Measurement: Essential for hypertension diagnosis.