Cardiac Tamponade Flashcards
1
Q
What is cardiac tamponade?
A
A potentially fatal situation when blood or fluid accumulated in the pericardium. This compresses the heart preventing the ventricles from expanding fully therefore impeding it’s blood supply.
2
Q
What are 3 potential causes of cardiac tamponade?
A
1- pericarditis, caused by bacterial or viral infections.
2- trauma to the heart or it’s vessels, causing the pericardium to fill with blood.
3- other- heart surgery.
3
Q
What is the treatment for cardiac tamponade?
A
Immediate hospitalisation where pericardiocentesis is performed. Fluid is drained from the pericardium to reduce the pressure. The underlying cause of the tamponade is addressed, eg repairing heart tissue or antibiotics.
