Pericardiocentesis Flashcards
1
Q
What is tamponade?
A
Accumulation of fluid between pericardial sac and the myocardium
2
Q
Why is tamponade an issue?
A
The accumulation of fluid between the pericardial sac and myocardium may compress the heart and prevent diastolic refill
3
Q
What are the most common causes of tamponade?
A
Bleeding into the pericardial sac following:
- Blunt chest trauma
- Cardiac surgery
- Should also be suspected in PEA
4
Q
What is the treatment for tamponade?
A
- pericardiocentesis
- -> Removes fluid to allow for ventricular filling and restoration of CO
5
Q
What does pericardiocentesis involve?
A
- Pericardiocentesis needle attached to a 50mL syringe by a 3 way stopcock is inserted from the right side of the xiphoid process aimed at the Lt) scapula.
- Fluid is aspirated.
