Chapter 12 Flashcards
True or False
As population ages, cardiac pacemakers and internal cardioverter defibrillators have become increasingly common in dental patients.
True
What is a pacemaker composed of?
Pulse generator and leads
Generator contains electronic circuitry that powers the device and is a small metal box
Where is the generator of a pacemaker implanted?
Subcutaneously, in the clavicle region of the chest wall
What is the longevity of a generator?
7-10 years
True or False
The leads of a pacemaker are the connection between the heart muscle and the generator, and are inserted into the venous system.
True
Where are the leads inserted into?
Venous system
Maneuvered to the area of the heart requiring stimulation, usually right atrium, right ventricle, or both
Usually contains two, sometimes 3 leads
True or False
Pacemakers are often used for the treatment of arrhythmias or irregular heart rate
True
True or False
The most common arrhythmia for which pacemakers are used is severe bradycardia or slow heart rate
True
True or False
The pacemaker monitors the heart rate constantly, and if it observes normal cardiac rhythm, it does nothing. If it observes a slowing of the heart rate below a programmed level, it begins to give electrical impulses to the heart to speed up.
True
What are ICDs used for?
Treat harmful tachyarrhythmias
True or False
Ventricular tachycardia can lead to ventricular fibrillation, a condition in which there is a chaotic electrical activation to the ventricles that can be fatal if not treated on time.
True
True or False
The ICD continuously monitors the heart for such arrhythmias and, when they occur, delivers an electrical shock called cardioversion or defibrillation to return the heart to normal rhythm
True
True or False
Placement of a lead apron over the pacemaker or ICD reduces the amount of possible electromagnetic interference.
True
What are some signs and symptoms of pacemaker malfunction?
Lightheadedness Dizziness Dyspnea Moist, pale skin Weakness Bradycardia or tachycardia depending on reason for implantation Chest pain Swelling in extremeties Prolonged hiccoughing Muscular twitching Possible altered mental state
True or False
Once the interference is terminated, the symptoms usually subside, and in some more severe cases, syncope may occur and would need to be treated accordingly.
True
