Congestive Heart Failure Flashcards
LB: What are the symptoms of left and right sided heart failure?
Left - pulmonary edema
Right - peripheral edema
Both - inadequate perfusion to organs leading to organ damage (forward failure)
LB: Briefly describe the typical progression of heart failure
Myocardial damage (resulting from ischemic damage, hypertension, or valvular diseases) commonly leading to left sided heart failure, followed by progression to right sided heart failure
LB: What EKG change is often associated with heart failure? (Hint: QRS morphology)
High amplitude QRS complexes
LB: What common Dysrhythmia can result from left atrial enlargement
Atrial Fibrillation
LB: A. Fib can cause stasis of blood in the auricle of the atria. What issue can this lead to, and what prophylaxis is used to prevent it?
Thrombus traveling to the brain causing a stroke. Anticoagulants are used.
LB: A. Fib can lead to a rapid ventricular rate (A. Fib with RVR), what is the risk of this arrhythmia?
Shorter duration of diastole which prevents adequate coronary artery perfusion
LB: What does the presence of an S3 heart sound signify about cardiovascular physiology?
Stiffening of the left ventricle, or increased blood volume in the left ventricle.
LB: What radiological sign is often seen on chest x-ray in pulmonary edema?
Kerley B lines showing interstitial exudates
LB: What is the name for pure right sided heart failure and what causes it?
Cor pulmonale; increased resistance in the pulmonary circulation
LB: Why does congestive heart failure lead to poor absorbance of PO medication?
Chronic edema of the bowel due to hypertension in the portal vein
LB: What is the most common presentation of someone presenting with either left or right sided heart failure?
A patient who has peripheral edema and shortness of breath
