Heart failure

Question 1

Define heart failure

Answer 1

Inability of the heart to maintain circulation despite adequate filling pressure

Question 2

Define diastolic failure

Answer 2

Reduced filling

Question 3

Define systolic failure

Answer 3

Inability to contract properly

Question 4

Describe the change to the Starling curve associated with heart failure

Answer 4

Plateus at lower volumes

Question 5

Describe the effect of heart failure on the sympathetic response of the heart

Answer 5

Constant input reduces sensitivity, poor exercise tolerance

Question 6

Describe the effect of heart failure on the kidneys

Answer 6

Reduced perfusion activates RAAS

Question 7

S+S of heart failure

Answer 7

Cough, SoB, Oedema

Question 8

Describe how heart failure causes pulmonary oedema

Answer 8

Left ventricle fails to clear, Blood backs up in the pulmonary vessels, Fluid leaks out

Question 9

Describe how heart failure causes peripheral oedema

Answer 9

Right ventricle fails to clear, Blood backs up in the peripheral veins, Fluid leaks out

Question 10

Management of heart failure

Answer 10

B-blockers, ACE inhibitors, Diuretics