Cardiac Emergencies Flashcards
What is Atherosclerosis?
Arterial thickening due to lipid buildup and inflammation. Can lead to ischemia (angina) or thrombus formation (MI).
What does ACS stand for?
Acute Coronary Syndrome.
What constitutes a complete coronary artery blockage in ACS?
STEMI or NSTEMI.
What are the key components of management for ACS?
- ABCs
- Oxygen if SPO2 <94%
- Aspirin
- IV access
- 12-lead ECG
- Nitroglycerin if no contraindications
- Rapid transport
What is Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)?
Atherosclerosis affecting peripheral circulation, causing claudication and risk of embolism.
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
Blood clot in deep veins, risk of pulmonary embolism.
What is the management for DVT?
- Limb elevation
- Transport
- Monitoring for complications
What is Hypertension?
Chronic high blood pressure, can lead to stroke or cardiac disease.
What are the two types of Aortic Valve Disease?
- Stenosis (narrowing)
- Regurgitation (leakage)
What is Aortic Dissection?
Tear in the aortic wall, severe ‘ripping’ pain.
What is essential for the management of Aortic Dissection?
Rapid transport.
What are the management strategies for hypertension?
- BP control
- Pain management
- IV access
- Transport supine if tolerated
What is Infective Endocarditis?
Infection of heart lining/valves, treated with antibiotics.
What is Myocarditis?
Heart muscle inflammation, can lead to arrhythmias.
What is Pericarditis?
Inflammation of pericardium, relieved by leaning forward.
What is Cardiac Tamponade?
Fluid accumulation in pericardium, leading to Beck’s Triad (hypotension, JVD, muffled heart sounds). Requires rapid intervention.
What is Cardiomyopathy?
Heart muscle dysfunction; can be dilated or hypertrophic.
What is Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)?
Can be left-sided (pulmonary edema) or right-sided (peripheral edema).
What are the management strategies for CHF?
- High-flow O2
- Full Fowler’s position
- CPAP/nitroglycerin (ALS)
- Transport
What are Atrial and Ventricular Septal Defects?
Holes in heart’s septum, can lead to heart failure.
What is Patent Ductus Arteriosus?
Persistent fetal artery, increasing pulmonary pressure.
What is the management for congenital heart defects?
Supportive care and monitoring.
