Cardiovascular Flashcards
Danger Signals
(5)
Acute Coronary Syndrome
Stable and Unstable Angina
Heart Failure
Infective Endocarditis
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
ACS
(3)
Classic Presentation
STEMI, NSTEMI, Unstable Angina
Middle-Older aged man + steady chest, substernal discomfort described as squeezing, tightness, crushing, knot in center of chest, heavy pressure (“elephant sitting on my chest”), band like
Radiation to arms, shoulder, neck, jaw
ACS
- Provoked by (3)
- Atypical symptoms experienced by women, elderly, diabetics include
- ep______ discomfort
- in______
- n_____/v_____
- new onset f_____, d_______
- Provoked by physical exertion, emotional upset, eating heavy meal
- Atypical symptoms experienced by women, elderly, diabetics
- epigastric discomfort
- indigestion
- nausea/vomiting
- new onset fatigue, dizziness
ACS
Best diagnostic test =
Treatment =
12 lead EKG
Give ASA 162-325mg to chew and swallow, call 911
Stable Angina
=
Brief 2-5 min, precipitated by exercise, emotional upset, heavy meals, or lifting heavy objects, relieved with rest or nitroglycerin
Unstable Angina
=
Occurs after minimal activity/occurs at rest, does becomes more severe, frequent, prolonged and does not respond to rest or nitroglycerin
If myocardial ischemia present, unstable angina is considered a type of ACS
Heart Failure S/S
- Age =
- ____ of breath and ___headedness with minimal exertion
- Progresses to dyspnea at _____
- (1) shortness of breath when lying down
- (1) sudden awakening from sleep dt SOB and relieved with upright sitting position
- Peripheral _____ caused by fluid retention
- _____ appetite
- ___ quadrant abdominal pain
- Age = usually elderly
- Short of breath and lightheadedness with minimal exertion
- Progresses to dyspnea at rest
- Orthopnea: shortness of breath when lying down
- Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dyspnea: sudden awakening from sleep dt SOB and relieved with upright sitting position
- Peripheral edema caused by fluid retention
- Poor appetite
- RUQ abdominal pain
Heart Failure Causes
(2) types
- C_____ a_____ disease
- Ar_____
- Cardio_____
- Hypo______
- Uncontrolled ____
HFrEF (reduced ejection fraction) < 40%
HFpEF (preserved ejection fraction) > 50%
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Arrhythmias
- Cardiomyopathy
- Hypothyroidism
- Uncontrolled HTN
Heart Failure Physical Exam Findings
- lung sounds (2)
- Heart sounds (2)
- RR =
- HR =
- Jugular vein _____
- Decompensation can be caused by increased _____ intake, and ______ with medications
- lung sounds = crackles, wheezing
- Heart sounds = S3 gallop, paradoxical splitting of S2
- RR = tachypnea
- HR = tachycardia
- Jugular vein distension
- Decompensation can be caused by increased sodium intake, and noncompliance with medications
Infective Endocarditis (Bacterial Endocarditis) Risk Factors
- IV d____ use
- Val_____ abnormalities
- Arr______
- Hemod______
- IV drug use
- Valvular abnormalities
- Arrhythmias
- Hemodialysis
Infective Endocarditis
Most common causes (2)
MSSA (Methicillin-sensitive staphylococcus aureus)
MRSA (Methicillin-resistance staphylococcus aureus)
Infective Endocarditis S/S
- F____, Ch_____
- New-onset m____ (85%)
- An_____, weight _____
-
Skin findings*
- Nail bed =
- Palate =
- Fingers and toes =
- Palms and soles =
- Fundoscopic exam* =
- Fever, Chills
- New-onset murmur (85%)
- Anorexia, weight loss
-
Skin findings*
- Nail bed = subungual hemorrages (spinter hemorrhages)
- Palate = petechiae
- Fingers and toes = Osler nodes* (painful violet-colored nodes)
- Palms and soles = Janeway lesions* (nontender red spots)
- Fundoscopic exam = Roth spots* (retinal hemorrhages)
Infective Endocarditis Diagnostic Test
(1)
Transthoracic Echocardiogram
AAA S/S
If not ruptured =
If ruptured =
Majority asymptomatic
Severe, Sharp, Excruciating Abdominal, Back, or Flank pain + pulsatile abdominal mass
AAA Risk Factors
- Age > ___yo
- Gender =
- Race =
- Social activity =
- Diagnosed with =
- Age > 70 yo
- Gender = Male
- Race = White
- Social activity = Smoker
- Diagnosed with = HTN
AAA Diagnosis
Initial Imaging =
If incidental finding on Xray, what will you see?
Ultrasound
Chest X-ray findings = widened mediastinum, tracheal deviation, and obliteration of aortic knob (thoracic aortic dissection)
Normal Position of the Heart
Estimated heart size?
Which chamber of the heart lies closest to the sternum?
Where is the apical impulse generated? and where can you feel it?
Apex beat is caused by which ventricle?
Size o large adult fist
right ventricle
lower border of left ventricle, fifth intercostal space by the midclavicular line on the left side of the chest
left ventricle
What situations is there a displacement of the point of maximal impulse?
(3)
Severe LVH
Cardiomyopathy
Third Trimester Pregnancy
Why is there displacement of the point of maximal impulse in
- Severe LVH and cardiomyopathy?
- Third trimester pregnancy?
- displaced laterally bc size of heart gets bigger (larger >3cm) in size and more prominent
- Uterus grows and pushes against diaphragm causing shift to left of chest anteriorly → displaced PMI now slightly upward, may also hear S3 heart sound during pregnancy
Order of how deoxygenated blood flows through the heart?
Superior vena cava and inferior vena cava → right atrium → tricuspid valve → right ventricle → pulmonic valve → pulmonary artery → lungs and alveoli where RBCs pick up oxygen and release CO2
Order of how Oxygenated blood circulates through the heart?
Oxygenated blood from lungs enters pulmonary vein → left atrium → mitral valve → left ventricle → aortic valve → aorta → general circulation
Systole and Diastole
Pneumonic =
Which valves make the S1 heart sound?
Which valves make the S2 hear sound?
“Motivated Apples”
S1 = Mitral, Tricuspid, AV valves
S2 = Aortic valve, Pulmonic valve, Semilunar valves
Semilunar valves = valves that prevent backflow into ventricles (between right ventricle and pulmonary artery, between left ventricle and aorta)
S1 (Systole)
- “Motivated” =
- The “___” sounds (of “lub-dub”)
- Closure of which valves?
- “Motivated” = Mitral and Tricuspid (AV vlaves)
- The “lub” sounds of (“lub-dub”)
- Closure of the mitral and tricuspid valves
S2 (Diastole)
- “Apples” =
- The “___” sound (of “lub-dub”)
- Closure of which valves?
- “Apples” = Aortic and Pulmonic (semilunar valves)
- The “dub” sound (of “lub-dub”)
- Aortic and pulmonic valves (semilunar valves)
S3 Heart Sound
Usually indicative of? (1)
Occurs during early _____ (also called (2))
Sounds like what word?
Always considered abnormal if it occurs after ___ yo
This can be a normal finding in (3)
Heart Failure/CHF
Occurs during early diastole (aka “ventricular gallop”, “S3 gallop”)
“Kentucky”
Always considered abnormal if it occurs after 40yo
Can be normal in children, pregnant women, some athletes (>35yo)
S4 Heart Sound
Usually indicates (1)
Occurs during ___ diastole (also called (2))
Sounds like (1)
Best heard where? Using what part of the stethoscope?
Increased resistance dt stiff left ventricle → LVH
Occurs during late diastole (“atrial gallop”, “atrial kick”)
“Tennessee”
Apex (apical area/mitral area), Bell of stethoscope
When to use the Bell of the Stethoscope
What kind of tones? aka (2)
What murmur (1)
Low tones (S3 or S4)
Mitral Stenosis
When to use the Diaphragm of the Stethoscope
What kind of sounds? such as ____ sounds
(2) murmurs
Mid-high pitched tones such as lung sounds
Mitral regurgitation, Aortic Stenosis
Heart Sounds that are Benign Variants
(2)
Physiological S2 Split
S4 in the Elderly
Physiological S2 Split
Cause =
Best heard where?
Only normal if it appears during _____ and disappears at ______
Splitting of aortic and pulmonic components
Pulmonic area (second ICS upper left of sternum)
+ inspiration, - expiration
S4 in the Elderly
Also known as (1)
When is it considered normal?
When is it pathological?
“Atrial kick” (atria have to squeeze harder to overcome resistance of stiff left ventricle)
No S/S of heart/valvular disease
Pathological if associated with LVH (resistance from left ventricle)
Tips for Murmur Questions
T_____ of murmur (1) or (1)
L______ of murmur (1) or (1) or (1)
Timing of murmur (systole or diastole)
Location of murmur (Aortic, Erb’s point, or Mitral area)
Systolic Murmurs Acronym
(2)
Systolic murmurs also described as occurring during
- S__
- h___systolic, p__systolic, e___ systolic, l___ systolic, m__systolic
- Soft or louder compared to diastolic murmurs?
- Can radiate to (2)
MR. ASS
Mitral Regurgitation, Aortic Stenosis
- S1
- holosystolic, pansystolic, early systolic, late systolic, midsystolic
- Louder
- Can radiate to Neck or Axillae
Diastolic Murmurs Acronym
(2)
- S__
- E___ diastole, l___ diastole, or m__ diastole
- Unlike systolic murmurs, diastolic murmurs are always indicative of?
MS. ARD
Mitral Stenosis, Aortic regurgitation
- S2
- Early diastole, Late diastole, Mid diastole
- Always indicative of heard disease
Murmurs heard over the Mitral Area
Mitral area is known as the _____ of the heart
Which intercostal, distance from midsternal line, relative to location of midclavicular line?
Mitral area is known as the apex (apical area (PMI) of the heart)
5th left intercostal 8-9cm from midsternal line, slightly medial to midclavicular line
Murmurs heard over the Aortic Area
Where is the aortic area?
Right second ICS by the right side of the sternum at the base of the heart
Murmurs Heard over Erb’s Point
Where is erbs point?
Left 3rd-4th intercostal left sternal border
Mitral Regurgitation
A ___systolic (___systolic) murmur
Best heard at what location of the heart?
May radiate to _____
L____ blowing and ___-pitched murmur (use the ____ of the stethoscope)
A pansystolic (holosystolic) murmur
Best heard at the apex (apical area) of the heart
May radiate to axilla
Loud blowing and high-pitched murmur (use the diaphragm of the stethoscope)
Aortic Stenosis
A __systolic e_____ murmur
Best heard where?
May radiate to the ____
A h____ and noisy murmur (use _____ of the stethoscope)
Patients with this should avoid over_____ bc increased risk of ____ → refer to (1) to be monitored by (1)
Tx (1) may be needed if worsens
A midsystolic ejection murmur
Best heard right side 2nd ICS
May radiate to the neck
A harsh and noisy murmur (use diaphragm of the stethoscope)
Patients with this should avoid overexertion bc increased risk of death → refer to cardiologist to be monitored by doppler flow studies
Surgical valve replacement may be needed if worsens
Mitral Stenosis
Also called an (1), use ___ of stehoscope
Best heard where?
Also called an opening snap, use bell of stehoscope
Best heard at the apex (apical area)
Aortic Regurgitation
A ___ pitched diastolic murmur (use _____ of stethoscope)
- If AR due to (1) = heard at Erb’s point
- If AR due to (1) = heard at Aortic area
A high pitched diastolic murmur (use diaphragm of stethoscope)
- If AR due to diseased aortic valve = heard at Erb’s point
- If AR due to abnormal aortic root = heard at Aortic area
Grading of Murmurs
Match each description to Grade of Murmur
- Mild to moderately loud murmur
- Very loud murmur heard with edge of stethoscope off the chest. Thrill is more obvious.
- Loud murmur that is easily heard once the stethoscope is placed on the chest
- A very soft murmur heard only under optimal conditions
- Murmur is so loud that it can be heard even without stethoscope. Thrill is easily palpated
- A louder murmur. First time that a thrill (palpable murmur) is present.
- A very soft murmur heard only under optimal conditions
- Mild to moderately loud murmur
- Loud murmur that is easily heard once the stethoscope is placed on the chest
- A louder murmur. First time that a thrill (palpable murmur) is present.
- Very loud murmur heard with edge of stethoscope off the chest. Thrill is more obvious.
- Murmur is so loud that it can be heard even without stethoscope. Thrill is easily palpated
Pathological Murmurs
All ____ murmurs are abnormal
All benign murmurs occur during _____
Benign murmurs do not have a ____, only very ___ murmurs will produce a thrill
All diastolic murmurs are abnormal.
All benign murmurs occur during systole.
Benign murmurs do not have a thrill; only very loud murmurs will produce a thrill.
Exam Tips
- There are usually ____ questions regarding heart murmurs on the exam.
- Learn to use the mnemonics (2)
- All murmurs with “_____” in their names are only described as located:
- On the apex (or apical area) of the heart or
- On the fifth ICS on the left side of the sternum medial to the midclavicular line
- If an apical/apex murmur occurs during S1, it is (1). If an apical/apex murmur occurs during S2, it is (1)
- On the exam, only the ______ murmurs radiate (to the ____ in mitral regurgitation and to the ____ with aortic stenosis).
- There are usually two questions regarding heart murmurs on the exam.
- Learn to use the mnemonics “MR. ASS” and “MS. ARD.”
- All murmurs with “mitral” in their names are only described as located:
- On the apex (or apical area) of the heart or
- On the fifth ICS on the left side of the sternum medial to the midclavicular line
- If an apical/apex murmur occurs during S1, it is mitral regurgitation (MR. ASS). If an apical/apex murmur occurs during S2, it is mitral stenosis (MS. ARD).
- On the exam, only the systolic murmurs radiate (to the axilla in mitral regurgitation and to the neck with aortic stenosis).
Exam Tips
- S3 is a sign of (1); S4 is a sign of (1)
- A physiological split S2 is best heard at the ______ area (upper left sternum).
- Memorize the mnemonic (1) to help you remember the names of the valves that are responsible for producing S1 and S2.
- Grading murmurs: Be aware that the first time a thrill is palpated is at grade (1).
- Rule out (1) in an older male who has a pulsatile abdominal mass that is more than 3 cm in width. The next step is to order an abdominal ______ and ___.
- Learn the signs/symptoms of (1) (bacterial endocarditis).
- S3 is a sign of CHF; S4 is a sign of LVH.
- A physiological split S2 is best heard at the pulmonic area (upper left sternum).
- Memorize the mnemonic “motivated apples” to help you remember the names of the valves that are responsible for producing S1 and S2.
- Grading murmurs: Be aware that the first time a thrill is palpated is at grade IV.
- Rule out AAA in an older male who has a pulsatile abdominal mass that is more than 3 cm in width. The next step is to order an abdominal ultrasound and CT.
- Learn the signs/symptoms of IE (bacterial endocarditis).
EKG Exam Tips
- Only ___ or none EKG strips will appear per exam
- Occasionally, an arrhythmia will be _____ without a strip such as “irregularly irregular rhythm with no visible P waves (AF)”
- Most common arrhythmias included bc FNP and AGNP function in primary care, not expected to interpret EKG strip with (1) or other complex arrhythmias
- Important rhythms
- (1) = irregularly irregular rhythm w no P waves
- (1) = ST segment elevation in leads V2-V4
- (1) = jagged irregular QRS
- Only 1 or none EKG strips will appear per exam
- Occasionally, an arrhythmia will be described without a strip such as “irregularly irregular rhythm with no visible P waves (AF)”
- Most common arrhythmias included bc FNP and AGNP function in primary care, not expected to interpret EKG strip with AV block or other complex arrhythmias
- Important rhythms
- AF = irregularly irregular rhythm w no P waves
- Anterior wall MI= ST segment elevation in leads V2-V4
- Ventricular tachycardia = jagged irregular QRS
What is this rhythm?
Atrial Fibrillation
What does this EKG show?
(most common of MI)
(2) PQRST changes
What is the term for the abnormal QRS waves?
Anterior Wall MI
ST segment elevation + wide QRS
Wide QRS in V2-V4 called “TOMBSTONING”
What does this EKG strip show?
Common in who?
Sinus Arrhythmia
More common in healthy children and young adults
P waves are uniform but the PP interval varies during inspiration and exhalation
What Arrhythmia does this describe?
- Most common arrhythmia in the US
- Major cause of stroke
- Classified as supraventricular tachyarrhythmia
Atrial Fibrillation
What Arrhythmia does this describe?
Atria beat regularly but faster than usual ie) 4 atrial beats per ventricular beat
Atrial Flutter
Afib and Aflutter Risk Factors
- H_ _
- C _ _
- A _ _
- L _ _
- (1) like caffeine, cocaine, nicotine, amphetamine
- ____thyroidism
- Al_____ (“holiday heart”)
- Pulmonary e_______
- C _ _ _
- Sleep ____
- HTN
- CAD
- ACS
- LVH
- Stimulants like caffeine, cocaine, nicotine, amphetamine
- Hyperthyroidism
- Alcohol (“holiday heart”)
- Pulmonary embolism
- COPD
- Sleep apnea
Version of Afib that is intermittent, self terminating: episodes terminate within 7 days or less (usually <24 hours), Usually Asymptomatic
However if pt hemodynamically unstable (chest pain/angina, hypotension, HF, cold clammy skin, AKF), or new onset AF with severe symptoms, what should you do?
Paroxysmal AF
(Persistent AF = >12m)
Call 911 if new onset AF w severe sx
What heart rhythm do you think this patient has?
Patient reports a sudden onset of heart palpitations described as feeling like “a fish is flopping in my chest” or “drums are pounding in my chest” that is accompanied by feelings of weakness, dizziness, and tachycardia. There is a reduction of exercise capacity. May complain of dyspnea, chest pain, and feeling like passing out (presyncope to syncope). Rapid and irregular pulse may be more than 110 beats/min with hypotension.
Atrial Fibrillation
Once Afib is diagnosed, the next step is determining if anticoagulation therapy is needed, what tool can you use to do that?
CHAD2 Score
CHA2DS2-VASc
- C =
- H =
- A =
- D =
- S2 =
- V =
- A =
- S =
- C = CHF
- H = HTN
- A = Age >75
- D = Diabetes
- S2 = Stroke or TIA
- V = Vascular disease
- A = Age 65-74
- S = Sex female gender higher risk
CHA2DS2-VASc Scoring System
Low risk score =
Score for anticoagulation =
Low risk score = 0
Score of 2 = anticoagulation (however some physicians will treat score of 1)
New Onset Afib Workup
Find underlying cause
- Diagnostic (2)
- Labs (5)
- Consider (1) monitor if paroxysmal
- (1) level if on Digoxin
- Lifestyle advice in the meantime is to avoid (1)
- EKG, Echo (RO valvular pathology)
- TSH, Electrolytes (Ca, K, Mg, Na), Renal function, BNP (RO HF), Troponin (RO MI)
- 24 hours Holter monitor
- Dig level if on digoxin
- Avoid stimulants in the meantime (caffeine, cocaine, nicotine, decongestants) and alcohol
Afib Medications
(usually referred to cardiologist for med management)
- For rate control (3)
- Antiarrhythmics (1)
- Anticoagulant for valvular AF (1)
- Anticoagulant for nonvalvular AF (1)
- Beta Blockers, Calcium Channel Blockers, Digoxin
- Amiodarone
- Warfarin (Coumadin) for valvular AF
- DOACS first line for nonvalvular AF
Amiodarone (Cordarone)
Black Box Warnings
- P_____ toxicity
- H_____ injury
- Hyper or hypo______
- V_____ impairment
- Peripheral _______
- Worsened arr______
- Pulmonary toxicity
- Hepatic injury
- Hyper or hypothyroidism
- Visual impairment
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Worsened arrythmia
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Vitamin K antagonist
For anticoagulation in patients with abnormal or damaged (1) and (1) disease
Baseline labs (5)
If you suspect bleeding episode, check (3)
Abnormal/Damaged heart valves and CKD
INR, aPTT, CBC (to check platelets), Creatinine, LFTs
INR, PT, PTT
Warfarin Dosing
Initial daily dosing for average adult =
Initial daily dosing for elderly/>70, frail, sensitive =
Full effect takes ___ days
Check INR every __-__ days until therapeutic for __ consecutive checks, then recheck every ____ until INR is stable at __-__
Once stable check every __ weeks
5mg daily
2.5mg daily
3 days for full effect
Check INR Q2-3 days until therapeutic for 2 consecutive checks, then recheck weekly until INR 2-3
Q4 weeks when stable
Warfarin Drug Interactions
- (1) = Methyprednisolone, prednisone
- (1) and (1) = fluoxetine, sertraline, duloxetine, fluvoxamine, venlafaxine
- (1) = ciprofloxacine, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin
- (1) = azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin
- (1) = amoxicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate
- (1) = fluconazole, miconazole
- (1) = fluvastatin, lovastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin
- Other meds = tr_____, feno_____, trim_____ s_______
- Glucocorticoids
- SSRIs and SNRIs
- Fluoroquinolones
- Macrolides
- Penicillins
- Azole antifungals
- Statins
- Tramadol, fenofibrate, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
DOACS
- _______ (Pradaxa)
- _______ (Xarelto)
- _______ (Savaysa)
- _______ (Eliquis)
Advise pts to take meds on schedule and do not skip doses bc effect is lost after ___ hours
Does it require monitoring? Any diet restrictions? Any drug interactions?
- Dabigatran (Pradaxa)
- Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)
- Edoxaban (Savaysa)
- Apixaban (Eliquis)
Advise pts to take meds on schedule and do not skip doses bc effect is lost after 12 hours
Does not require INR monitoring, no major dietary restrictions, has fewer drug interactions
Complications from Afib and Afib Treatment
- Death by a (1) event (ie stroke, PE), C_ , an_____
- Warfarin associated intracerebral ______ has very high mortality and causes 90% of warfarin deaths (medical emergency, call 911)
- Rx (1) associated life threatening bleeding episode
- Rx (1) associated life threatening bleeding episode
- Death by a thromboembolic event (ie stroke, PE), CHF, angina
- Warfarin associated intracerebral hemorrhage has very high mortality and causes 90% of warfarin deaths (medical emergency, call 911)
- Warfarin associated life threatening bleeding episode
- DOAC associated life threatening bleeding episode
Warfarin Associated Life Threatening Bleeding Episode Treatment
- _____ Warfarin and all anticoagulants such as ASA, NSAIDs
- Give vitamin __ , 4-factor pro____ complex concentrate (PCC< inactivated), or fresh (1)
- Check labs (3)
- Stop Warfarin and all anticoagulants such as ASA, NSAIDs
- Give vitamin K , 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC, inactivated), or fresh frozen plasma
- Check labs INR, PT, and PTT
DOAC associated life threatening bleeding episode treatment
(1) Rx for bleeding caused by rivaroxaban (xarelto), apixaban (eliquis)
(1) Rx for bleeding caused by dabigatran (pradaxa)
Andaxanet alfa (Andexxa)
Idarucizumab (Praxbind)
Anticoagulation Guidelines
Goal INR for
1) Afib
2) Synthetic/Prosthetic Values
Afib = INR 2-3
Synthetic/Prosthetic Values = INR 2.5-3.5
Management of Elevated INR
INR <4.5 and no presence of bleeding =
INR 4.5-10 and none or not clinically significant bleeding =
Skip next dose or slightly reduce maintenance dose, check INR 1-2x per week when adjusting dose. Do NOT give vitamin K. (if INR only minimally elevated, maintenance dose does not need to be reduced)
Hold one or two doses, with or without giving Vitamin K (1-2.5mg), Monitor INR every 2-3 days until stable. Decrease warfarin maintenance dose
DOACS Patient Education
- Advise patients to be consistent with their day-to-day consumption of (1) foods.
- Give patient a _____ of foods with high levels of vitamin K such as? (7)
- Only _____ serving per day is recommended for very high vitamin K foods.
- Advise patients to be consistent with their day-to-day consumption of vitamin K foods.
- Give patient a list of foods with high levels of vitamin K (“greens” such as kale, collard, mustard, spinach, iceberg or romaine lettuce, brussels sprouts, potatoes).
- Only one serving per day is recommended for very high vitamin K foods.
Rhythm that is part of the narrow QRS complex tachycardias with regular ventricular response. Defined as intermittent episodes of regular but rapid heartbeat, which starts and stops abruptly, EKG shows tachycardia with peaked QRS complex with P waves present
(2) Examples
Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
Wolff Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome
Atrial Tachycardia
Can be misdiagnosed as a panic attack
What heart rhythm does this describe?
Patient complains of an abrupt onset of palpitations (“feels like fluttering in my chest”), rapid pulse, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and anxiety. May feel weak and fatigue or faint. Rapid heart rate can range from 150 to 250 beats/min. Reports previous episodes that resolved spontaneously. Can start in childhood or older; it may resolve spontaneously or reccur at a later time.
Can be precipitated by digitals toxicity, alcohol, hyperthyroidism, caffeine intake, and illegal drug use
Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia Treatment
What should you do if the EKG shows WPW (Wolff-Parkinson White) Syndrome or pt is symptomatic?
Refer to Cardiologist or Call 911 if hemodynamically unstable, may need cardioversion
WPW increases risk of death → refer to cardiologist for catheter ablation
Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia Treatment
American College of Cardiology 2015 guidelines
(2) maneuvers you can try first for acute treatment? describe each maneuver? are there any contraindications?
- Vagal Maneuver Carotid Sinus Massage: pt supine, monitor VS/continuous 12-lead EKG if in clinical setting, change in HR/rhythm and/or BP is a + response
- CI = hx TIA or stroke within last 3m, presence of carotid bruits, etc
- Valsalva Maneuver = holding breath and straining hard for 10-15 seconds, then release and breath normally
Defined as a fall in systolic BP (SBP) of more than 10 mmHg during the inspiratory phase
Sign of (1)*
Pumonary causes (2)
Cardiac causes (3)
Pulses Paradoxus (paradoxical pulse)
important sign of cardiac tamponade*
Asthma, Emphysema (increased + pressure)
Cardiac tamponade, Pericarditis, Cardiac effusion (decreased movement of left ventricle)
Exam Tips
- PR interval signifies what? Duration in seconds and boxes?
- How many EKG strips on exam?
- Memorize appearance of (3) specific rhythms*!
- Goal INR for Afib? If INR between 4.01-4.99, what should you do?
- Definition of pulsus paradoxus
- PR interval = atrial depolarization, 0.12-0.20 seconds (3-5 small boxes)
- 1 EKG strip, or none
- Sinus arrhythmia, Afib, and anterior wall MI (tombstone like pattern)!
- INR 2-3 for afib. If INR 4.01-4.99, hold one dose, do not give vitamin K
- Drop in SBP >10 during inspiratory phase
Clinical Pearls
- Can major bleeding occur with a normal INR? What labs to order if you suspect bleeding?
- How long does it take to see a change in INR when changing the warfarin dose?
- Warfarin (Coumadin) is a FDA category __ drug. Meaning it is _______
- Major bleeding episodes can occur even with a normal INR. Order an INR with the PT and PTT if you suspect bleeding.
- It may take up to 3 days after changing the warfarin dose to see a change in the INR.
- Warfarin (Coumadin) is an FDA category X drug. It is teratogenic.
Definition of HTN
BP >____/____
Majority of pts have what type of HTN?
Only 5-10% people have what type of HTN?
Generally, what type of treatment is first line for newly diagnosed HTN?
What if someone has newly diagnosed HTN but also has risk factors like CAD?
BP >130/80
Primary (Essential) HTN most common
Secondary HTN 5-10%
Lifestyle nonpharm treatment for majority of newly diagnosed HTN
Lifestyle + Pharm tx for newly diagnosed with risk factors
Diagnosis of HTN
=
- Important to compare (1) BP to (1) BP, difference of < ___mmHg is not significant
- Instruct about accurate s____ of cuff, if cuff is too small it will falsely _____ BP
- Advise patient to take it at ____ times of the day and during work
- What should you rule out if home BP is lower?
2 serial BP measurements 1-4 weeks apart
- Important to compare home BP to office BP, difference of < 5mmHg is not significant
- Instruct about accurate size of cuff, if cuff is too small it will falsely elevate BP
- Advise patient to take it at different times of the day and during work
- RO white coat HTN if home BP lower than office BP several times
Blood Pressure Measurement
- Avoid consuming _____ or s_____ 30min before measurement
- Legs should not be ______
- Begin measurement after __min of rest
- _____ sphygmomanometer preferred over _____ machines
- 2 or more readings separated by ___ min should be averaged per visit
- What if one number is stage 2 and the other number is stage 1?
- Avoid consuming caffeine or smoking 30min before measurement
- Legs should not be crossed
- Begin measurement after 5 min of rest
- Mercury sphygmomanometer preferred over digital machines
- 2 or more readings separated by 2 min should be averaged per visit
- Higher number determines BP stage
HTN Stages
Normal =
Elevated =
Stage 1 =
Stage 2 =
Normal <120 and <80
Elevated 120-129 and <80
Stage 1 130-139 or 80-89
Stage 2 140 or higher or 90 or higher
HTN Screening
Starts screening at what age? how frequent? What if they have risk factors?
Start at 18yo, annually if normal, semiannually (twice/year) if risk factors present
BP = CO x PVR
Any change in PVR or CO results in a change in BP, examples include
(1)
- water retention increases vascular volume, resulting in increased (1) part of the equation (BP increases)
- Renin levels are higher in what age? what race?
(1)
- This hormone increases vasoconstriction and will increase PVR (BP increases)
(1)
- This system causes increases in epinephrine and cortisol secretion which increases PVR (BP increases)
NA + (sodium)
- water retention increases vascular volume, resulting in increased CO part of the equation (BP increases)
- Renin levels are higher in younger and white patients
Angiotensin I and Angiotensin II
- This hormone increases vasoconstriction and will increase PVR (BP increases)
Sympathetic System Stimulation
- Stimulation of this system causes increases in epinephrine and cortisol secretion which increases PVR (BP increases)
BP = CO x PVR
Any change in PVR or CO results in a change in BP, examples include
(3)
- Drugs decrease peripheral vascular resistance from vasodilation (BP decreases).
(1)
- Systemic vascular resistance is ____ because of hormones (SBP and diastolic blood pressure [DBP] decrease during the first and second trimesters).
- The ___ heart sound is common in the _____ trimester of pregnancy.
- Drugs used to control BP in pregnancy are methyl___, lab______, _____-blockers, and di_______.
Alpha-Blockers, Beta-Blockers, Calcium-Channel Blockers
- Drugs decrease peripheral vascular resistance from vasodilation (BP decreases).
Pregnancy
- Systemic vascular resistance is lowered because of hormones (SBP and diastolic blood pressure [DBP] decrease during the first and second trimesters).
- The S3 heart sound is common in the third trimester of pregnancy.
- Drugs used to control BP in pregnancy are methyldopa, labetalol, beta-blockers, and diuretics.
HTN Screening Labs and Diagnostic Tests
- Kidneys: (3)
- Endocrine: (2)
- Electrolyte: (3)
- Heart: (1) panel
- Anemia: (1)
- Baseline (2) (to rule out cardiomegaly)
- Kidneys: Creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinalysis
- Endocrine: TSH, fasting blood glucose
- Electrolyte: Potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), calcium (Ca2+)
- Heart: Cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (complete lipid panel)
- Anemia: CBC
- Baseline EKG and chest x-ray (to rule out cardiomegaly)
Microvascular Target Organ Damage from HTN
-
Eyes
- (2) wire arterioles
- Arteriovenous junction _____ (caused when an arteriole crosses on top of a vein)
- F______-shaped hemorrhages, pap______
-
Kidneys
- (2) urias
- Elevated (2)
- Peripheral or generalized e_____
-
Eyes
- Silver and/or Copper wire arterioles
- Arteriovenous junction nicking (caused when an arteriole crosses on top of a vein)
- Flame-shaped hemorrhages, papilledema
-
Kidneys
- Microalbuminuria and Proteinuria
- Elevated serum Cr, eGFR (ro kidney disease)
- Peripheral or generalized edema
Macrovascular Target Organ Damage from HTN
- Heart
- S__ (CHF)
- S__ (LVH)
- Carotid _____ (narrowing due to plaque, increased risk of CAD)
- C_ _ and acute __
- Decreased or absent peripheral p_____ (peripheral arterial disease [PAD])
- Brain
- T____
- ______ St_____
- Heart
- S3 (CHF)
- S4 (LVH)
- Carotid bruits (narrowing due to plaque, increased risk of CAD)
- CAD and acute MI
- Decreased or absent peripheral pulses (peripheral arterial disease [PAD])
- Brain
- TIAs
- Hemorrhagic Strokes
Secondary Hypertension
In about __-__% of patients with HTN, there is a secondary cause. If the condition is correctable and/or treatable, then the HTN will resolve. The causes of secondary HTN can be classified into three major groups:
- Renal (renal artery _____, poly___kidneys, C_ _)
- Endocrine (hyperth_____, hyperal_____, pheo_______)
- Other causes (obstructive (1), c_____ of the aorta)
- Out of these cause, what is most associated with younger vs. middle aged vs. older adults?
In about 5-10% of patients with HTN, there is a secondary cause. If the condition is correctable and/or treatable, then the HTN will resolve. The causes of secondary HTN can be classified into three major groups:
- Renal (renal artery stenosis, polycystic kidneys, CKD)
- Endocrine (hyperthyroidism, hyperaldosteronism, pheochromocytoma)
- Other causes (obstructive sleep apnea, coarctation of the aorta)
- Renal artery stenosis more common in younger, Endocrine related disorders more common in middle aged, CKD more common in elderly
When should you suspect Secondary HTN?
- Age < ___ yo
- S____ HTN or ac____ rise in BP (previously stable patient)
- R_____ HTN despite treatment with at least _____ antihypertensive agents
- M______ HTN (severe HTN with (1) damage such as retinal hemorrhages, papilledema, acute renal failure, and severe headache)
- Age < 30 years
- Severe HTN or acute rise in BP (previously stable patient)
- Resistant HTN despite treatment with at least three antihypertensive agents
- Malignant HTN (severe HTN with end-organ damage such as retinal hemorrhages, papilledema, acute renal failure, and severe headache)
Coarctation of the Aorta
Secondary Cause of HTN
- Normal difference between BP in the legs vs. arms?
- What is difference between BP in the legs and arms found in coarctation of the aorta?
- Look for what in femoral pulses? How to check?
- Usually, SBP is higher on the legs (normal finding) because it takes more force to circulate the blood back to the heart.
- But with coarctation, the opposite is found. If there is a narrowed aorta in the abdomen (abdominal aorta), the part of the body above the narrowed aorta (the arms) will have higher BP and bounding pulses. The part of the body below the narrowed aorta (the legs) will have lesser blood flow, so the SBP on the legs will be lower, and the pulses will be weaker.
- Look for delayed or diminished femoral pulses (check both radial and femoral pulse at the same time and compare).
Sleep Apnea
Secondary Cause of HTN
Sleep partner will report severe _____ with a_____ episodes during sleep.
Marked hy____ episodes during sleep increase BP.
Sleep partner will report severe snoring with apneic episodes during sleep.
Marked hypoxic episodes during sleep increase BP.
Secondary HTN Clinical Findings
Kidneys
- (1) = Bruit in epigastric, abdomen, or flank area: avoid (2) Rx
- (1) = Enlarged kidneys with cystic renal masses
- (1) = Increased creatinine and decreased eGFR
- Renal artery stenosis: Bruit epigastric, abdomen, or flank area (renal artery stenosis): avoid angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Polycystic kidney = Enlarged kidneys with cystic renal masses (polycystic kidney)
- Renal insufficiency to Acute Kidney Failure = Increased creatinine and decreased eGFR
Primary Hyperaldosteronism (Conn’s Syndrome)
Endocrine Cause of Secondary HTN
Role of Aldosterone =
Most common cause is an aldosterone-producing ______ (usually benign) and less commonly adrenal ______
Treatment =
HTN + what K and Na levels indicate this condition?
Aldosterone helps control BP by sodium retention and potassium excretion
Most common cause is an aldosterone-producing adenoma (usually benign) and less commonly adrenal cancer
Surgical removal of tumor
HTN + hypokalemia + normal to elevated sodium levels
Hyperthyroidism
Secondary Cause of HTN S/S
- Weight ___, ____cardia, fine tr_____, _____ skin, an______
- New onset of (1) (check EKG)
- Check T___
- Weight loss, tachycardia, fine tremor, moist skin, anxiety
- New onset of AF (check EKG)
- Check TSH
Pheochromocytoma
Endocrine Secondary Cause of HTN
=
- Labile increase in BP accompanied by pal_____
- Sudden onset of an____, sw____, severe h_____
- Order (1) for (high-risk patient) or (1) (low risk patient)
Excessive secretion of catecholamines (severe HTN, arrhythmias)
- Labile increase in BP accompanied by palpitations
- Sudden onset of anxiety, sweating, severe headache
- Order plasma-free metanephrine (high-risk patient) or urine metanephrines fractionated (low risk)
Defined as an SBP >180 mmHg and/or DBP >120 mmHg without target organ damage
Most common cause (1)
Tx =
Hypertensive Urgency
Noncompliance with antihtn therapy
Restart or intensify antihtn therapy with close follow up
Defined as a SBP >180 mmHg and/or DBP >120 mmHg with clinical findings of target organ damage, such as nausea and vomiting, increased intracranial pressure (ICP), cerebrovascular accident (CVA)/TIA, MI, acute PE, acute renal failure, retinopathy (flame-shaped hemorrhages), papilledema, or acute severe low-back pain (dissecting aorta)
Tx =
Hypertensive Emergency
Call 911
Defined as office SBP 120 to 129 mmHg with normal DBP <80 mmHg after 3-month lifestyle modification trial, while daytime home measurement BP is 130/80 mmHg or higher.
Masked Hypertension
Isolated Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly
- Caused by loss of re______ in the arteries (atherosclerosis), which increases PVR.
- Pulse pressure (SBP – DBP) __creases in this disorder.
- Emphasize nonpharmacologic treatment, especially dietary ____ restriction and w_____ loss in the obese. Treat BP in older or frailer patients carefully; start at ______ doses and titrate up ______ so that it takes about 3 to 6 months.
- Initial ____therapy with a ____-dose thiazide diuretic, a CCB (long-acting dihydropyridine), or an ACEI or ARB.
- Caused by loss of recoil in the arteries (atherosclerosis), which increases PVR.
- Pulse pressure (SBP – DBP) increases in this disorder.
- Emphasize nonpharmacologic treatment, especially dietary salt restriction and weight loss in the obese. Treat BP in older or frailer patients carefully; start at lower doses and titrate up slowly so that it takes about 3 to 6 months.
- Initial monotherapy with a low-dose thiazide diuretic, a CCB (long-acting dihydropyridine), or an ACEI or ARB.
Elderly are at higher risk for this type of HTN due to a less active autonomic nervous system and slower metabolism of drugs by the liver (prolongs half-life of drugs).
Orthostatic Hypotension
Orthostatic Hypotension
- Check BP in both _____ and _____ positions, especially in the elderly, before and after ______ for HTN
- Check for poly______, carefully review the medication history, and search for meds that lower BP
- Ask patient if d_____ or ___headed with changes in position
- Check BP in both supine and standing positions, especially in the elderly, before and after treatment for HTN
- Check for polypharmacy, carefully review the medication history, and search for meds that lower BP
- Ask patient if dizzy or lightheaded with changes in position
Management of HTN
- First, assess 10-year risk for (1) using the new (1) risk calculator
- Reassess in __ month/s for effectiveness of BP-lowering medication therapy.
- If goal is met at 1 month, reassess in __-__ months.
- If goal is not met after 1 month, consider di_____ medication or ti_____
- Continue m______ follow-up until BP control is achieved.
- First, assess 10-year risk for heart disease using the new ASCVD (atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease) Risk Estimator Plus calculator at http://tools.acc.org/ASCVD-Risk-Estimator-Plus/#!/calculate/estimate.
- Reassess in 1 month for effectiveness of BP-lowering medication therapy.
- If goal is met at 1 month, reassess in 3 to 6 months.
- If goal is not met after 1 month, consider different medication or titration.
- Continue monthly follow-up until BP control is achieved.
Management of Normal Blood Pressure
SBP
Treatment and frequency of monitoring?
SBP <120 and DBP <80
Encourage heart-healthy lifestyle, evaluate yearly
Elevated Blood Pressure
SBP? and DBP?
Recommend _____-healthy lifestyle and weight ____ if overweight/obese. Reassess in __ to __ months.
SBP 120 to 129 mmHg and DBP <80 mmHg
Recommend heart-healthy lifestyle and weight loss if overweight/obese. Reassess in 3 to 6 months.
No more “prehypertension” stage; instead, it is known as “elevated BP.”
Hypertension Stage 1
SBP = (1) or DBP = (1)
- Goal BP =*
- Risk less than 10%:* Start with ______ lifestyle recommendations and reassess in __ to __ months.
- Risk greater than 10% or known clinical cardiovascular disease (or diabetes, CKD):* L______ recommendations and (1)
SBP 130-139 or DBP 80-89
- Goal BP:* <130/80 mmHg.
- Risk less than 10%:* Start with healthy lifestyle recommendations and reassess in 3 to 6 months.
- Risk greater than 10% or known clinical cardiovascular disease (or diabetes, CKD):* Lifestyle recommendations and BP-lowering medication.
Hypertension Stage 2 Management
SBP = (1) or DBP (1)
Goal BP:
_________ changes and #____ BP-lowering medications of _____ classes. Reassess BP in?
If goal is met after 1 month, reassess in ___ to __ months.
If goal not met after 1 month, consider d_____ medications or ti______
Continue m_____ follow-up until BP control is achieved.
SBP 140 or higher OR DBP 90 or higher
Goal BP: <130/80 mmHg
Lifestyle changes and BP-lowering medications (two meds of different classes). Reassess BP in 1 month.
If goal is met after 1 month, reassess in 3 to 6 months.
If goal not met after 1 month, consider different medications or titration.
Continue monthly follow-up until BP control is achieved.