Cardiovascular Pathology

Question 1

What is an arrhythmia?

Answer 1

Rhythms not produced by the S.A. node and/or not transmitted through the normal conduction system of the heart

Question 2

Outline the common symptoms associated with arrhythmias

Answer 2

Dyspnea, dizziness, syncope, palpitations, chest pain, sudden cardiac events

Question 3

Term for no electric activity

Answer 3

Asystole

Question 4

Termed for normal rhythm but slowed/quickened

Answer 4

Sinus Brady/tachycardia

Question 5

Name the 2 types of tachycardia

Answer 5

Supra ventricular: The pacemaker site is above the AV node. QRS width is normal
Ventricular: The pacemaker site is below the AV node. QRS is prolonged

Question 6

Sinus arrhythmia can be described as…

Answer 6

Irregularly regular

Question 7

Atrial fibrillation can be described as…

Answer 7

Irregularly irregular.

Resultant of multiple atrial ectopic foci, causing multiple small contractions to occur.

Question 8

Premature ventricular contraction can be classified as…

Answer 8

Unifocal, multifocal

Question 9

What factors increase the risk of arrhythmias?

Answer 9

Hyperkalaemia, increased QT duration, myocardial ischaemia, channelopathies

Question 10

Describe the types of heart block which may be observed

Answer 10

First degree: Increased PR interval
Second degree
Mobitz 1: The PR interval is extended. A P wave is blocked (meaning conduction to the ventricles is blocked), QRS not seen and then normal rhythm resumes. A regular pattern is observed.
Mobitz 2: Multiple P waves are blocked, preventing conduction to the ventricles. PR interval is constant
Third degree: All impulses from the atria are blocked by the AV node (none reach the ventricles). The ventricles may stimulate their own contraction, however the rate of contraction is much slower.