Cardio Flashcards
What is cardiac tamponade?
Compression of the heart caused by fluid collecting in the pericardial sac
It results in a weaker pump and less cardiac output.
Why is cardiac tamponade considered a medical emergency?
It can lead to a dramatic drop in blood pressure that can be fatal
The heart cannot fill and pump effectively due to compression.
What mnemonic can help remember key aspects of cardiac tamponade?
C - Cardiac Tamponade, C - Compression on the heart, C - Critical client!
This mnemonic highlights the urgency and nature of the condition.
What are the acute causes of cardiac tamponade?
Trauma (stabbing or motor vehicle accident)
Acute causes involve sudden injury to the heart or pericardium.
What is a chronic cause of cardiac tamponade?
Pericarditis
This is inflammation of the pericardium that can lead to fluid accumulation.
What is Beck’s triad in relation to cardiac tamponade?
Big Jugular Vein Distension, Extreme Low BP, Can’t hear heart sounds
These signs are indicative of cardiac tamponade.
What is pulse paradoxus?
Systolic drop of 10 mmHg
Example: A drop from 120/80 to 110/80 is a sign of cardiac tamponade.
What are the characteristics of ECG findings in cardiac tamponade?
QRS complexes are short and uneven height
These changes can indicate the presence of cardiac tamponade.
What is the first step in the treatment of cardiac tamponade?
Pericardiocentesis
This procedure involves draining the fluid from the pericardial sac.
What is involved in the procedure of pericardiocentesis?
Cardiac monitor, catheter attached to drainage system, assess drainage
Monitoring and assessment are critical for patient safety during the procedure.
What is Dilated Cardiomyopathy?
Fibrosis of myocardium and endocardium, dilated chambers, difficult pumping of oxygen-rich blood
Clients present with distended heart muscles
What is Restrictive Cardiomyopathy characterized by?
Stiff heart muscles that restrict filling, common emboli
Think ‘rock hard’ heart muscles
What is the main feature of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?
Hypertrophy of heart muscles, especially in the septum, can obstruct aorta
Think ‘huge trophy-like’ heart muscles
What does obstructive mean in the context of cardiomyopathy?
Blocks the aortic valve
Non-obstructive does not block the aorta
What do all forms of cardiomyopathy lead to?
Less cardiac output, resulting in less oxygen-rich blood to the body
This is a critical factor in heart failure
What is the only cause of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?
Genetics only
Other types may have multiple causes
List common signs and symptoms of low oxygen.
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Altered level of consciousness
- Syncope
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
These symptoms are indicative of hypoxia
What are signs of left-sided heart failure?
- Lung fluid
This can lead to pulmonary congestion
What are signs of right-sided heart failure?
- Edema
- Ascites
- Jugular vein distention (JVD)
This reflects systemic congestion
What is a significant physical finding in Dilated Cardiomyopathy?
53 murmur and cardiomegaly
Cardiomegaly refers to an enlarged heart
What is the typical presentation of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?
Typically asymptomatic until heavy exercise, can lead to sudden death
This is especially concerning in children
What are the main classes of medications used in cardiomyopathy?
- ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril)
- Beta Blockers (e.g., Atenolol)
- Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., Diltiazem, Verapamil)
- Digoxin
- Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, HCTZ)
Each class has specific roles in managing heart failure
When should Digoxin be held?
- Apical pulse < 60
- Potassium (K+) < 3.5
- Digoxin level > 2.0
These conditions indicate risk for digoxin toxicity
What are common side effects of Digoxin toxicity?
- Vision changes
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Monitoring for these symptoms is crucial
What are the lab tests used to assess heart function?
- Chest X-ray
- MRI
- Echocardiogram
- Angiography
- BNP levels
Each test provides different insights into heart health
What is considered a normal ejection fraction (EF)?
55-70%
An EF of 40% or less indicates heart failure
What BNP levels indicate heart failure?
- 100 or less: Normal
- 101-299: Mild elevation
- 300+: Mild heart failure
- 600+: Moderate heart failure
- 900+: Severe heart failure
BNP is a marker for heart failure severity
What does the DRESS acronym stand for in patient education?
- Diet (low sodium & low fat)
- Rest periods
- Exercise
- Stop smoking & alcohol
- Stress reduction
These lifestyle changes are crucial for managing heart conditions
