OSCE questions Flashcards
What is an ECG
Electrocardiogram. Shows electrical activity through the heart and rate.
Why is correct lead placement important?
To avoid diagnostic errors and misinterpretation
What are chest lead landmarks
V1 - 4th intercostal right of sternum
V2 - 4th intercostal left of sternum
V3 - Between V2 and V4
V4 - 5th intercostal left mid clavicular line
V5 - Between V4 and V6
V6 - 5th intercostal left mid axillary line
When is ECG indicated
Chest pain
Sycope
Unexplained falls
What is a normal heart rate
60 - 100 bpm
>60 bradycardia
<100 tachycardia
What is blood pressure
Pressure in blood vessels in mmHg
What is systolic/ diastolic
Systolic is pressure when heart beats (bigger number)
Diastolic is pressure between beats (smaller number
What factors can affect blood pressure
Cardiac output
Volume of blood
Stress
Caffeine
Medication
What is normal blood pressure
Systolic 90-120
Borderline hypertensive 120-140
What are indications for measuring blood pressure
Chest pain
Unexplained falls
syncope
What are contra indications for measuring blood pressure
Patient refusal
IV line in arm
Recent open wounds on arm
Other procedures required as priority
Advantages/ disadvantages of automatic blood pressure
Easier
Cuff placement is less important
Less accurate as estimates systolic/ diastolic based on mean arterial pressure
Advantages/ disadvantages of manual blood pressure
More accurate
Noise/ movement can interfere
User error
When is ECG contra indicated
Allergy to adhesive
Patient refusal
Other procedures needed as priority
What does peak flow measure
The amount of air that can be forcefully exhaled measured in L/min