Chapter 17 Flashcards
Circulatory System
Also known as the cardiovascular system.
Cardiac Conduction System
Generates electrical impulses for heart function.
Conductivity
Property allowing rapid impulse conduction in heart.
Automaticity
Ability of pacemaker sites to generate impulses independently.
Sinoatrial Node
Primary pacemaker located in right atrium.
Atrioventricular Node
Secondary pacemaker activated if SA node fails.
Purkinje Fibers
Deliver impulses to heart’s contractile cells.
Contractile Cells
Heart cells responsible for muscle contraction.
Sympathetic Nervous System
Increases heart rate and contractile force.
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Slows heart rate and reduces contraction force.
Atria
Upper chambers of the heart.
Ventricles
Lower chambers of the heart.
Cardiac Arrest
Sudden loss of heart function.
Defibrillation
Electrical shock to restore heart rhythm.
Superior Vena Cava
Receives deoxygenated blood from the body.
Pulmonary Arteries
Carry deoxygenated blood to the lungs.
Pulmonary Veins
Return oxygenated blood from lungs to heart.
Tricuspid Valve
Valves between right atrium and right ventricle.
Pulmonic Semilunar Valve
Ejects blood from right ventricle to pulmonary arteries.
Right Ventricular Heart Failure
Failure of right ventricle to pump effectively.
Cor Pulmonale
Right heart failure due to lung disease.
Myocardium
Heart muscle responsible for contraction.
Epicardium
Outer layer surrounding the myocardium.
Interventricular Septum
Wall separating the left and right ventricles.
Apex
Lowest point of the heart.
Ejection Fraction
Percentage of blood pumped from ventricle per beat.
Cardiac Output
Volume of blood pumped by heart per minute.
Blood Flow Requirements
Body’s need for adequate blood circulation.
Venae Cavae
Largest veins returning deoxygenated blood to heart.
Left Atrium
Chamber receiving oxygenated blood from pulmonary veins.
Mitral Valve
Valve between left atrium and left ventricle.
Left Ventricle
Pumps oxygenated blood into the aorta.
Aortic Semilunar Valve
Valve allowing blood flow from left ventricle to aorta.
Aorta
Main artery distributing oxygenated blood to the body.
Hypertension
Condition of excessively high blood pressure.
Heart Failure
Inability of the heart to pump sufficient blood.
Pulmonary Edema
Fluid accumulation in lungs due to heart failure.
Deoxygenated Blood
Blood low in oxygen, high in carbon dioxide.
Capillaries
Thin-walled vessels for nutrient and gas exchange.
Venules
Small vessels collecting deoxygenated blood from capillaries.
Coronary Arteries
Supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle.
Right Coronary Artery
Branches off aorta, supplies right heart structures.
Left Coronary Artery
Branches off aorta, supplies left heart structures.
Anterior Descending Branch
Supplies blood to the front of the heart.
Hydrostatic Pressure
Pressure exerted by fluid in the blood vessels.
Oncotic Pressure
Pressure exerted by proteins in blood plasma.
Cardiac Rhythm Disturbances
Irregular heartbeats affecting blood circulation.
Myocarditis
Inflammation of the heart muscle.
Post-partum Cardiomyopathy
Heart failure occurring after childbirth.
External Iliac Arteries
Supply blood to the lower limbs.
Internal Iliac Arteries
Supply blood to pelvic organs.
Great Saphenous Vein
Longest vein in the body, runs along the leg.
Inferior Vena Cava
Returns deoxygenated blood from lower body to heart.
Brachial Artery
Major artery supplying the arm.
Renal Artery
Supplies blood to the kidneys.
Femoral Artery
Major artery supplying the thigh.
Heart
Muscle requiring oxygenated blood to pump effectively.
Tourniquet Analogy
Demonstrates muscle fatigue without oxygen supply.
Hypoxia
Oxygen deprivation leading to cell death.
Ischemia
Reduced blood flow causing tissue damage.
Heart Attack
Result of prolonged ischemia leading to muscle death.
Cardiac Rhythms
Electrical impulses regulating heartbeats.
Blood Components
Elements including red cells, white cells, platelets.
Serum/Plasma
Liquid portion of blood transporting formed elements.
Red Blood Cells
Carry oxygen to body tissues.
White Blood Cells
Protect body against infections.
Platelets
Cellular elements aiding in blood clotting.
Coagulation Process
Blood response to injury forming clots.
Thrombus
Clot formed in response to blood vessel injury.
Thrombin
Protein activating clot formation.
Fibrin
Protein strands strengthening blood clots.
Plaque
Fatty deposits in arteries causing blockages.
Atherosclerosis
Artery occlusion from plaque buildup.
Endothelium
Inner wall of blood vessels.
Atrial Systole
Contraction of atria ejecting blood into ventricles.
Ventricular Systole
Contraction of ventricles pumping blood out.
Diastolic Phase
Heart muscle relaxation and filling phase.
Dysrhythmias
Abnormal heart rhythms potentially causing death.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Graphic representation of heart’s electrical activity.
Depolarization
Electrical charge change causing heart contraction.
Repolarization
Return to resting charge causing heart relaxation.
P Wave
ECG waveform representing atrial depolarization.
QRS Complex
ECG component indicating ventricular contraction.
T Wave
ECG phase preparing for next heartbeat.
ECG
Graphic representation of heart’s electrical activity.
P wave
First ECG waveform; atrial depolarization.
QRS complex
Second ECG waveform; ventricular depolarization.
T wave
Third ECG waveform; ventricular repolarization.
PR interval
Time from P wave to QRS complex.
Sinoatrial node
Heart’s natural pacemaker generating impulses.
Normal sinus rhythm
Regularly spaced ECG peaks indicating heart function.
Premature ventricular complexes (PVC)
Uncoordinated ventricular electrical impulses.
Ventricular tachycardia (V-Tach)
Rapid heart rate with closely spaced peaks.
Ventricular fibrillation (V-Fib)
Disorganized electrical activity in ventricles.
Blood pressure
Pressure against arterial walls during circulation.
Systolic blood pressure
Pressure during heart contraction.
Diastolic blood pressure
Pressure when heart is at rest.
Vasoconstriction
Narrowing of blood vessels increases pressure.
Vasodilation
Widening of blood vessels decreases pressure.
Perfusion
Delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells.
Shock
Profound depression of cell perfusion.
Hypoperfusion
Inadequate blood flow to tissues.
Hypovolemia
Low blood volume affecting circulation.
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Narrowing and hardening of coronary arteries.
Cardiac compromise
Conditions affecting heart function and health.
Arteriosclerosis
Stiffening of arterial structures.
Endothelial injury
Damage to blood vessel lining leading to disease.
Inflammatory disease
Condition involving inflammation of blood vessels.
Risk factors for atherosclerosis
Smoking, diabetes, hypertension, LDL, HDL levels.
Intimal changes
Alterations in innermost blood vessel lining.
Smooth muscle cells
Cells in blood vessel walls contributing to contraction.
Fatty Streaks
Initial lesions in blood vessels from cell proliferation.
Fibrous Cap
Collagen covering fatty streaks, stabilizing plaque.
Thrombus
Clot that may occlude blood vessels.
Atherosclerosis
Buildup of fatty deposits in arteries.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Narrowing of coronary arteries reducing blood flow.
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)
Sudden heart conditions from artery narrowing or blockage.
Unstable Angina
Prolonged chest pain at rest or worsening symptoms.
Myocardial Ischemia
Inadequate oxygen delivery to heart muscle.
Ischemic Chest Pain
Discomfort due to heart muscle oxygen deficiency.
Angina Pectoris
Chest pain symptom associated with coronary artery disease.
Classic Angina
Occurs with increased heart workload or exertion.
Tissue Hypoxia
Oxygen deficiency in tissues, often due to ischemia.
Radiating Pain
Discomfort spreading to jaw, arms, or back.
Nitroglycerin
Medication used for angina relief.
Chest Discomfort
Patient’s term for angina, often not described as pain.
Precipitating Factors
Triggers like exertion or stress causing angina.
Duration of Angina
Typically lasts 2 to 15 minutes.
Myocardial Infarction
Heart attack due to prolonged ischemia.
Symptoms of Myocardial Infarction
Includes sweating, nausea, and prolonged discomfort.
Emergency Medical Care
Immediate treatment for angina or ACS symptoms.
Elderly Presentation
May show atypical symptoms of angina.
Nocturnal Angina
Angina that wakes the patient at night.
Chest Pain Assessment
Evaluate all chest pain as potential cardiac emergency.
Coronary Artery Spasm
Temporary tightening of coronary arteries reducing blood flow.
Emotional Stress
Can trigger angina due to increased heart demand.
Cool, Clammy Skin
Physical sign often associated with myocardial infarction.
Diaphoresis
Excessive sweating, common during cardiac events.
Epigastric Pain
Upper abdominal discomfort, sometimes mistaken for angina.
Chest Pressure
Common description of angina discomfort.
Angina
Chest pain due to reduced blood flow.
Acute Coronary Syndrome
A range of conditions associated with sudden reduced blood flow.
Positive Pressure Ventilation
Assisted breathing technique for inadequate respirations.
Pulse Oximeter
Device measuring blood oxygen saturation levels.
Dyspnea
Difficulty or labored breathing.
Hypoxemia
Low oxygen levels in the blood.
Supplemental Oxygen
Additional oxygen provided to improve oxygenation.
Nasal Cannula
Device delivering oxygen through the nostrils.
Nonrebreather Mask
Mask providing high-flow oxygen to patients.
Systolic Blood Pressure
Pressure in arteries during heartbeats.
Aspirin
Medication used to reduce blood clotting.
Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI)
Heart muscle death due to oxygen deprivation.
Coronary Artery Disease
Narrowing of coronary arteries due to plaque.
Ischemia
Inadequate blood supply to an organ.
Dysrhythmias
Abnormal heart rhythms that can be fatal.
Ventricular Fibrillation
Life-threatening heart rhythm causing cardiac arrest.
Fibrinolytic Agents
Medications that dissolve blood clots.
Silent Myocardial Infarction
Heart attack without typical chest pain symptoms.
Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
Device used to restore normal heart rhythm.
Aortic Aneurysm
Dilation of a weakened aortic wall.
Aortic Dissection
Tear in the aorta’s inner layer.
Pulsating Mass
Detectable swelling indicating possible aneurysm.
Cardiac Arrest
Sudden loss of heart function.
Reassessment
Ongoing evaluation of the patient’s condition.
Comfort Position
Positioning patient for optimal comfort and breathing.
Lead ECG
Electrocardiogram used for heart rhythm assessment.
Symptoms of Aortic Dissection
Severe sharp pain, often in back or arms.
Systolic Blood Pressure Difference
Difference indicates possible aortic dissection risk.
Female Presentation of ACS
Symptoms differ from males; often subtler.
Leading Cause of Death in Females
Coronary heart disease is the primary cause.
Classical Symptoms of ACS
Dull chest pain, respiratory distress, diaphoresis.
Atypical Symptoms of ACS
Neck ache, fatigue, epigastric pain, insomnia.
Reperfusion
Restoration of blood flow to ischemic tissue.
Reperfusion Injury
Cell damage from free radicals post-reperfusion.
Free Radicals
Damaging molecules produced during reperfusion.
Hyperoxygenation
Excessive oxygen leading to cardiac cell damage.
Heart Failure
Inability of heart to adequately pump blood.
Left Ventricular Failure
Failure of the heart’s left ventricle to function.
Right Ventricular Failure
Failure of the heart’s right ventricle to function.
Causes of Heart Failure
Includes heart attack, valve disorders, hypertension.
Signs of Myocardial Infarction
Chest pain, nausea, sweating, and fatigue.
Oxygen Administration Guidelines
Administer to dyspneic or hypoxemic patients only.
Nasal Cannula Usage
Start at low flow, titrate to achieve oxygen levels.
High-Risk Groups for Atypical ACS
Includes diabetics and older adults.
Myocardial Infarction Complications
Higher mortality in females post-event.
Emergency Care for ACS
Provide care despite atypical symptom presentation.
Symptoms of Ischemia
Can include back pain and unexplained fatigue.
Oxygen’s Role in Ischemia
Can worsen damage if administered excessively.
Coronary Artery Vasoconstriction
Increased oxygen levels can constrict coronary arteries.
Pulmonary Edema
Fluid accumulation in lungs due to heart failure.
Cardiogenic Shock
Inadequate blood pumping by heart post-damage.
Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Enlargement of left ventricle muscle affecting output.
Hypoxia
Insufficient oxygen supply to tissues.
Jugular Vein Distention
Enlarged neck veins indicating right heart failure.
Peripheral Edema
Swelling in extremities due to fluid retention.
Diastolic Blood Pressure
Pressure during heart’s relaxation phase.
Hypoperfusion
Inadequate blood flow to organs.
Tachycardia
Rapid heart rate exceeding normal limits.
Orthopnea
Difficulty breathing while lying flat.
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dyspnea
Sudden nighttime breathlessness.
Crackles
Abnormal lung sounds indicating fluid presence.
Diuretics
Medications to reduce body fluid volume.
Cardiac Output
Volume of blood pumped by heart per minute.
Pulmonary Hypertension
Increased pressure in pulmonary vessels.
Myocardial Damage
Injury to heart muscle, often from heart attack.
Edema
Swelling caused by fluid accumulation.
Hydrostatic Pressure
Pressure exerted by fluid in blood vessels.
Cyanosis
Bluish discoloration due to low oxygen.
Agitation
Restlessness due to inadequate oxygen supply.
Abdominal Distension
Swelling of the abdomen from fluid buildup.
Sponge-like Abdomen
Soft, distended abdomen indicating fluid retention.
Patent Airway
An unobstructed airway allowing normal breathing.
Gas Exchange
Process of oxygen and carbon dioxide transfer.
Poor Perfusion
Inadequate blood flow to tissues and organs.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
Device delivering continuous air pressure to keep airways open.
Ventricular Assist Device (VAD)
Device assisting heart’s pumping function, often awaiting transplant.
Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)
VAD specifically supporting the left ventricle’s function.
VAD Components
Includes pump, electronic controller, and batteries.
Primary Assessment
Initial evaluation focusing on life-threatening conditions.
Secondary Assessment
Detailed examination following primary assessment.
Continuous Blood Flow
Uninterrupted blood circulation provided by VAD.
Auscultation
Listening to internal sounds of the body for diagnosis.
Whirling Sound
Sound indicating functioning of a VAD.
Mental Status
Patient’s level of consciousness and cognitive function.
Identification Card
Card containing VAD patient information and contacts.
Local Protocol
Guidelines for treatment and transport of patients.
Infection Assessment
Evaluation for signs of infection at VAD insertion site.
Cardiac Defibrillator
Device used to restore normal heart rhythm.
Sepsis
Life-threatening response to infection affecting the whole body.
Biventricular assist device (BiVAD)
A type of implantable ventricular assist device that supports both ventricles of the heart.
Left ventricular assist device (LVAD)
An implantable device that helps the left ventricle pump blood to the body.
Right ventricular assist device (RVAD)
An implantable device that helps the right ventricle pump blood to the lungs.
Ventricular assist device (VAD)
A mechanical pump that supports heart function and blood flow in individuals with weakened hearts.
Patient Care Goals
Rapid identification of cardiovascular compromise and VAD-related malfunctions or complications.
Inclusion Criteria
Criteria for adult patients with VADs who exhibit symptoms of cardiovascular compromise or are in cardiac arrest.
Assessment for pump malfunction
Evaluate alarms, auscultate pump sounds, and check for signs of hypoperfusion.
VAD malfunction troubleshooting
Contact VAD-trained companion or coordinator, check connections, change batteries, and assess patient tolerance.
Management of airway
Implement airway management as indicated for patients with VADs.
Cardiac monitoring
Continuous observation of the patient’s heart activity.
Lead EKG acquisition
Obtain a lead electrocardiogram to monitor heart activity.
Transport for VAD-related complications
Expedite transport to the medical facility where the VAD was placed if clinically appropriate.
Hypoperfused patient management
Consider ALS for fluid administration using isotonic fluid with a maximum dose over a specified time.
Cardiac arrest protocol
CPR should not be performed if the VAD pump is functioning; confirm pump status before initiating CPR.
Non-invasive blood pressure measurement
May be difficult due to narrow pulse pressure from continuous flow pumps.
VAD complications
Potential issues include infection, stroke, bleeding, arrhythmias, and cardiac tamponade.
Chronic hypertension
A common condition affecting about 30% of the population in the U.S.
Acute hypertension
Often results from sympathetic nervous system discharge due to anxiety and pain during emergencies.
Cardiac arrest
Occurs when the heart is not pumping effectively or at all, resulting in no detectable pulses.
Nitroglycerin indications
Signs of chest pain consistent with acute coronary syndrome and physician-prescribed nitroglycerin.
Nitroglycerin contraindications
Conditions include low baseline systolic blood pressure, certain heart rates, suspected head injury, and recent use of specific medications.
Nitroglycerin medication form
Available as a tablet or sublingual spray.
Nitroglycerin dosage
One tablet or spray under the tongue, with a maximum of three doses, based on specific criteria.
Nitroglycerin administration steps
Complete patient assessment, check vital signs, obtain medical direction, and administer medication under the tongue.
Nitroglycerin
Medication used to dilate blood vessels.
Sublingual
Administration method under the tongue.
Reassessment
Monitoring patient after nitroglycerin administration.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Frequent checks during nitroglycerin treatment.
Dosage Documentation
Record dosage, time, and patient response.
Cardiac Oxygen Demand
Amount of oxygen the heart requires.
Dilation Effects
Nitroglycerin dilates coronary and peripheral arteries.
Headache
Common side effect of nitroglycerin use.
Hypotension
Drop in blood pressure from medication.
Pulse Rate Changes
Body compensates for blood vessel dilation.
Contraindication
Condition preventing nitroglycerin administration.
Bradycardia
Abnormally slow heart rate, avoid nitroglycerin.
Tachycardia
Abnormally fast heart rate, avoid nitroglycerin.
Tadalafil
Medication contraindicated with nitroglycerin.
Vardenafil
Medication contraindicated with nitroglycerin.
Sildenafil
Medication contraindicated with nitroglycerin.
Maximum Doses
Up to three doses of nitroglycerin allowed.
Fresh Supply
Use recent nitroglycerin to ensure effectiveness.
Age-Related Variations
Different presentations in pediatric and geriatric patients.
Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)
Heart defects present at birth, can cause emergencies.
Pulmonary Blood Flow
Inadequate or excessive flow can indicate CHD.
Emergency Medical Care
Immediate actions for patients with CHD.
Open Airway
First step in emergency care for CHD.
Oxygen Administration
Maintain oxygen levels above 94% in emergencies.
Cyanosis
Bluish skin indicating inadequate oxygenation.
Hypoxia
Low oxygen levels in the body.
Shock
Critical condition from inadequate blood flow.
Patient Response
Feedback on medication effectiveness during reassessment.
Medical Direction Approval
Required before readministration of nitroglycerin.
Supplemental Oxygen
Additional oxygen for patients showing poor perfusion.
Poor Perfusion
Inadequate blood flow to tissues and organs.
Nasal Cannula
Device delivering oxygen through the nostrils.
Nonrebreather Mask
Oxygen mask preventing re-inhalation of exhaled air.
Congenital Heart Disease
Heart defects present at birth affecting function.
Positive Pressure Ventilation
Assisted breathing using a mechanical device.
Cardiac Arrest
Sudden cessation of heart function and blood circulation.
Hypoxemia
Low oxygen levels in the blood.
Acidosis
Excess acidity in the blood or body tissues.
Geriatric Patients
Older adults requiring specialized medical attention.
Acute Coronary Syndrome
A range of conditions associated with sudden heart issues.
Diabetes Mellitus
Chronic condition affecting blood sugar regulation.
Myocardial Infarction
Heart attack due to blocked blood supply.
Silent Heart Attack
Heart attack with minimal or no chest pain.
Trauma Patient
Individual with injuries requiring urgent care.
Asthma
Chronic respiratory condition causing airway constriction.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Progressive lung disease causing breathing difficulties.
Pulmonary Embolism
Blockage in a pulmonary artery, often from a clot.
Emergency Care Steps
Protocols for immediate treatment of medical emergencies.
Lead ECG
Electrocardiogram used to assess heart activity.
Heart Failure
Condition where heart cannot pump effectively.
Dysrhythmias
Abnormal heart rhythms affecting normal function.
Ventilatory Insufficiency
Inability to maintain adequate ventilation and oxygenation.
Chest Discomfort
Generalized pain or pressure in the chest area.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
First responder providing pre-hospital emergency care.
Acute Bronchoconstriction
Sudden tightening of muscles around airways.
Oxygen Saturation
Percentage of oxygen in the blood.
Titration
Gradual adjustment of medication or flow rate.
Caregiver
Individual responsible for the patient’s daily care.
Edema
Swelling due to fluid leakage from vessels.
Jugular Vein Distention
Enlargement of neck veins indicating heart issues.
Dyspnea
Difficulty breathing, often associated with heart failure.
Orthopnea
Difficulty breathing while lying flat.
Tachypnea
Rapid breathing, often a sign of distress.
Fowler’s Position
Sitting position to aid breathing in patients.
CAB Sequence
Compressions, Airway, Breathing order for CPR.
AED
Automated External Defibrillator for cardiac arrest.
CPR
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation to restore circulation.
OPQRST
Mnemonic for assessing chest discomfort history.
Chest Pain
Common symptom indicating potential cardiac issues.
Agonal Respirations
Gasping breaths indicating severe distress.
Levine Sign
Clenching fist over chest indicating severe discomfort.
Pediatric Dose-Attenuating System
AED feature for delivering reduced shock to children.
Skin Assessment
Evaluation of skin color and temperature for distress.
Transport Decision
Determining urgency of patient transfer to hospital.
Scene Size-Up
Initial assessment for safety and security.
Primary Assessment
Initial evaluation of patient’s condition and responsiveness.
Secondary Assessment
Detailed evaluation following primary assessment.
Altered Mental Status
Change in awareness or cognitive function.
Radiation of Pain
Discomfort spreading to other body areas.
Signs of Shock
Indicators of inadequate blood flow to organs.
Radiation
Discomfort traveling to other body parts.
Severity Scale
Subjective scale to rate discomfort intensity.
Intermittent Discomfort
Chest discomfort that comes and goes.
Percutaneous Intervention
Coronary angioplasty to restore blood flow.
Fibrinolytic Therapy
Medication to dissolve blood clots in vessels.
Contraindications for Fibrinolysis
Conditions preventing use of clot-dissolving drugs.
Systolic Hypertension
High blood pressure during heartbeats.
Diastolic Hypertension
High blood pressure between heartbeats.
Patient History
Previous heart attack increases current risk.
Angina
Chest discomfort due to heart strain.
Nocturnal Angina
Chest pain occurring during sleep.
Atypical Presentations
Unusual symptoms in heart attack cases.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
First responders for urgent medical situations.
Clotting Disorder
Condition affecting blood’s ability to clot.
Distal Perfusion
Blood flow restored to areas beyond blockage.
Patient Denial
Patients downplaying seriousness of symptoms.
Fibrinolytic Checklist
Assessment tool for fibrinolytic therapy eligibility.
Transport Protocol
Guidelines for patient transport decisions.
Pulmonary Edema
Fluid accumulation in lungs, causing breathing issues.
History of Trauma
Recent injuries affecting treatment options.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Internal bleeding in digestive tract affecting health.
Patient Assessment
Evaluation of symptoms and medical history.
Symptoms Presentation
Patients may show one to five symptoms.
Chest Discomfort Locations
Common areas include chest, neck, jaw, arms.
Jugular Venous Distention
Indicates possible heart failure or cardiac tamponade.
Cyanotic Mucous Membranes
Sign of hypoxia in the oral cavity.
Auscultation
Listening for abnormal breath sounds in the chest.
Peripheral Edema
Swelling indicating heart failure in extremities.
Presacral Edema
Fluid accumulation in lower back, often supine.
Signs of Cardiac Compromise
Includes chest pain, sweating, cool skin.
Anxiety in ACS
Common symptom indicating distress or impending doom.
Vital Signs Monitoring
Essential for assessing patient condition during exam.
Nitroglycerin Administration
Protocol-based treatment for chest pain relief.
Aspirin Indications
Given for chest pain suggestive of ACS.
Aspirin Contraindications
Avoid in patients with known allergies.
Aspirin Dosage
Administer nonenteric tablet as soon as possible.
Antiplatelet Effect
Aspirin reduces platelet clumping and clot formation.
Reassessment After Aspirin
Monitor patient condition post-administration.
Emergency Medical Care Steps
Includes reassurance, oxygen, nitroglycerin, aspirin.
Cool, Pale Skin
May indicate poor perfusion or shock.
Irregular Pulse Rate
Abnormal heart rhythm often seen in ACS.
Nausea and Vomiting
Common symptoms associated with heart issues.
Chest Pain Radiation
Pain may radiate to back, jaw, or arms.
Emergency Transport
Initiate early transport for acute coronary patients.
Patient Comfort Position
Often sitting up to alleviate anxiety.
Fluid in Alveoli
Indicates left ventricular heart failure.
Hypoxia Indicators
Sluggish pupils and cyanosis suggest oxygen deficiency.
Automated External Defibrillation
Device used to restore normal heart rhythm.
STEMI
ST-elevation myocardial infarction, a severe heart attack.
Patient Care Goals
Objectives for managing patients with cardiac issues.
Inclusion Criteria
Signs indicating potential cardiac origin of symptoms.
Symptom Onset
Time when patient first experienced symptoms.
Lead EKG
Primary tool for diagnosing STEMI in patients.
Aspirin Administration
Chewable, non-enteric-coated aspirin preferred for ACS.
Systolic Blood Pressure
Must be >90 mmHg for nitroglycerin use.
Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
Medications contraindicated with nitroglycerin use.
Patient Safety Considerations
Monitoring for clinical deterioration during treatment.
Serial EKGs
Repeated EKGs to monitor changes in heart rhythm.
Emergency Care Algorithm
Step-by-step process for managing cardiac compromise.
CHF
Congestive heart failure, indicating heart’s reduced function.
Syncope
Temporary loss of consciousness due to low blood flow.
Medication List
Complete list of patient’s current medications.
Transport Decisions
Choosing appropriate facility based on patient needs.
Patient Presentation
Signs and symptoms indicating potential cardiac issues.
Vasodilation
Widening of blood vessels to improve blood flow.
Defibrillator Pads
Used to deliver electric shock to restore heart rhythm.
