Diagnostic Tests and Treatments of the Cardiovascular System Flashcards
Define
Angiography
xray of blood vessels after injection of a contrast medium into the bloodstream
Define
Cardiac Catheterization (Cath)
a thin, hollow tube inserted into a large blood vessel that leads to the heart to determine how well the heart is functioning
Define
Doppler Ultrasound
sound waves that measure blood flow in vessels
Define
Echocardiography (Echo)
sound waves that produce images of the heart
Define
Electrocardiography (ECG or EKG)
produces a recording of the electrical activity of the heart
Define
Holter Monitor
a recording of abnormal heart rhythms with a compact ECG over 24hrs
What is an anticoagulant drug?
it slows coagulation of the blood and prevents new clots from forming
What are antiarrhythmics?
drugs used to suppress abnormal rhythms of the heart
What are antihypertensives?
drugs used to treat hypertension
What are diuretics?
also known as “water pills”, they treat hypertension and heart failure by increasing the excretion of water from the body
What is a thrombolytic?
a class of drug that breaks down blood clots
What is an angioplasty procedure?
a balloon-tipped catheter is inserted into a blocked blood vessel and inflated to open the vessel and restore blood flow. it is usually followed by the permanent placement of a stent to keep the artery or vein open
What is a cardiac ablation?
a flexible catheter is threaded through blood vessels into the heart to destroy abnormal tissue that triggers arrhythmias
What is a cardiac endarterectomy?
a procedure to remove a plaque deposit that is clogging a carotid artery
What is a pacemaker?
a device that is implanted under the skin to shock the heart electronically into regular rhythm
