1What is the point of maximal impulse (PMI)?
Apex of the heart
2How many layers is the heart composed of and what are they called?
Three layers
-Endocardium
-Myocardium
-Epicardium
3What is the endocardium?
-Innermost layer of the heart
-Made up of endothelial tissue and lines the heart and the valves
4What is the myocardium?
-Middle layer of the heart
-Consists of muscle fibers and is the thickest layer if the heart
-Responsible for the pumping action of the heart
5What is the epicardium?
-Outer layer of the heart
-Consists of a serous layer that protects the heart
6What is the pericardium?
-A fibrous sac that surrounds the heart
-Consists of two layers with a space in between that is filled with serous fluid that allows the layers to smoothly move against each other
7How does blood travel through the heart (starting in the right atrium)?
-Deoxygenated blood travels through the superior and inferior vena cava into the right atrium through tricuspid valve into right ventricle out through pulmonary valve through pulmonary artery to lungs to pick up oxygen
-Oxygenated blood then returns to the heart through the pulmonary veins into the left atrium through the bicuspid valve into the left ventricle then through the aortic valve to the body
8How many layers are arteries made up of and what are they called?
Three layers
-Tunica adventitia
-Tunica media
-Tunica intima
9What is rhe tunica adventitia?
-Outside layer of arteries
-Supportive layer composed of connective tissue, vessels, and nerves
10What is the tunica media?
-Middle layer of arteries
-Composed of endothelium, subendothelium, and internal elastic lamina
11What is the tunica intima?
-Innermost layer of arteries
-Composed of layers of smooth muscle that allow the artery to contract
12What is the function of an artery?
High-pressure blood is transported from the heart to arteries and arterioles
13What is the function of arterioles?
Joins arteries and capillaries
14What is the function of veins?
Acts as a reservoir of blood and carries low-pressure blood to the heart from venules
15What is the function of venules?
Joins capillaries and veins
16What is the function of capillaries?
Permits gas exchange, the transfer of nutrients, and the removal of waste between blood and the fluid of tissues
17How many branches does the left coronary artery have?
Three
18How many branches does the right coronary artery have?
2
19What do the coronary arteries do?
Durine diastole, they supply blood to the heart.
*with a resting or slow heart rate there is ample time for coronary perfusion, but if HR increases, diastole shortens and decreases perfusion time
20What is systole?
The contraction phase of the cardiac cycle
21What is diastole?
The relaxation phase of the cardiac cycle
22What is cardiac output?
The total amount of blood that is ejected from one ventricle of the heart in liters per minute
23What are factors that affect cardiac output?
-Vasoconstriction
-The compliance of the arteries
-Arterial pressure or afterload
-Dependent on the volume of blood entering the heart from the veins
24What is cardiac output typically in a healthy adult at rest?
5-6 L/min
25How do you calculate cardiac output?
Stroke volume multiplied by heart rate
26What is stroke volume?
The volume of blood ejected by one ventricle per heartbeat
27What three factors determine stroke volume?
Preload, afterload, and contractility
28What is preload?
The degree of stretching of the ventricular muscle when the heart is at the end of diastole
29What is afterload?
The resistance or pressure that the ventricle needs to overcome to eject blood into the peripheral circulation during ventricular contraction
30What is contractility?
The force that the myocardium generates during contraction
31What factors affect heart contractility?
-Sympathetic stimularion or inotropic medications may cause contractions to increase
-Hypoxia and negative inotropic medications may cause contractions to decrease
32What is cardiomyopathy?
A heart condition that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood
33What is S3?
-Ventricular gallop
-Loud “DUB” following S2
-Indicates decreased ventricular compliance
34What is S4?
-Atrial gallop
-Loud “LUB” immediately before S1
-Due to ventricular compliance caused by conditions such as hypertension, aortic stenosis, coronary artery disease, and cardiomyopathy
35What is a murmur?
-Turbulent blood flow through normal or abnormal heart valves
-Described as a “whooshing” sound
36What is a pericardial friction rub?
-Squeaky, scratchy sound created by friction occurring between the two layers of inflamed pericardial tissue
37What is an electrocardiogram (ECG)?
A noninvasive test for recording cardiac electrical activity
38What is depolarization?
The heart’s action potential transmits electrical impulses that activate a contraction of the heart muscle
39What is repolarization?
The action potential that allows the heart muscle to relax as it prepares to receive the next electrical impulse
40What are P waves?
ECG interpretation that represents the ocurrence of atrial depolarization
41What is the PR interval?
ECG interpretation measurement of time between atrial and ventricular depolarization
42What is the QRS complex?
ECG interpretation measurement used to determine length of ventricular depolarization
43What is the ST segment?
ECG interpretation that represents the duration between ventricular depolarization and repolarization
44What are T waves?
ECG interpretation that represents repolarization of the ventricles
45What is the QT interval?
ECG interpretation measurement used to determine the length of ventricular depolarization and repolarization
46What are the steps for ECG analysis?
1. Calculate heart rate
2. Determine if heart rhythm is regular
3. Assess for P waves
4. Measure PR interval
5. Measure duration of QRS complex
6. Assess ST segment
7. Observe for changes in T wave
8. Measure length of QT interval
9. Interpret the rhythm
47What is the fastest method to obtain an averaged ventricular heart rate when the rhythm is regular?
Count the number of QRS complexes in a six-second strip and then multiply that number by 10
48What is sinus tachycardia?
Heart rate above 100pm and all other normal sinus rhythm ECG interpretation criteria remains unchanged
49What are treatment options for sinus tachycardia?
-Administration of IV adenosine may be useful in altering the impulse excitability and can help determine if its sinus tachycardia or supraventricular tachycardia
-IV administration of IV beta blockers, such as metropolol, is also an option for clients who become hemodynamically unstable
50What are adverse effects of adenosine?
-Nausea
-Nervousness
-Feeling of impending doom
-Skin flushing
-Sweating
-Lightheadedness
-Numbness
51What is a catheter ablation?
A cardiac procedure that uses hot or cold energy waves to destroy abnormal cardiac tissue
52What is done if sinus tachycardia persists after IV medications?
-Possible catheter ablation to destroy the abnormally excited cardiac cells
53What are premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)?
-Occur when irritated ventricular cells send electrical impulses early
-Early QRS and much wider QRS complex
54Is the presence of a PVC (premature ventricular contraction) normal?
-Can be normal
-PVCs that occur without identification of abnormal heart structures are considered benign and medically insignificant
55What conditions can cause PVCs?
-Hypertension
-MI
-Cardiomyopathy
-Ventricular tachycardia
-COPD
-Electrolyte imbalances
-Thyroid disorders
-Caffeine sensitivity
56What are safety considerations with symptomatic PVCs?
-Can increase risk of falls due to dizziness or lightheadedness
-May indicate underlying disease
57What lab tests can be done for PVC?
-Electrolytes (especially potassium and magnesium) should be analyzed
-Thyroid hormone levels should be drawn to identify hyperthyroid disease
58What does an ECG with PVC look like?
-Underlying cardiac rhythm is typically normal but may appear slightly irregular with premature QRS complexes
-QRS complex >0.12 seconds
-P wave may be hiddennidentifiable
-PR wave may be unmeasurable
59What is ambulatory cardiac monitoring?
-Using a Holter or Event monitor
-Cardiac electrodes are placed on clients chest
-Client typically wears monitor for 24-48 hours
-May be asked to write down manifestations such as palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath
60What is an echocardiogram?
A noninvasive ultrasound that uses sound waves to create images of the heart and blood vessels
61What is the role of the nurse in caring for a client with PVC?
-Thorough review of medical history
-Ask client for timeline of manifestations
-Client education: smoking cessation, restrict alcohol, eliminating illicit drug use
62PVCs - Treatment and Therapies
-Clients with frequent and persistent PVCs are often administered a beta blocker or antiarrhythmic medications
*Clients vital signs need to be closely monitored
-catheter ablation
63Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs) - Pathophysiology
-Benign cardiac rhythm occurrences that cause the heart’s electrical conduction system to activate an early heartbeat or impulse from one of the two atrial chambers
64Premature Atrial Contractions - Etiology and Risk Factors
-Cause is typically unknown
-Atrial tissue irritation can be caused by conditions associated with alterations in cardiac function and perfusion (MI, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, CHF)
-Some medications (digoxin, beta blockers, chemotherapy drugs, some antidepressants)
65Premature Atrial Contraction (PACs) - Safety Considerations
-Benign and doesn’t pose a risk to most people
-Some people that are symptomatic experience shortness of breath
66Premature Atrial Contraction (PACs) - Clinical Presentation
-Often discovered inadvertently
67Premature Atrial Contraction - ECG
-Underlying rhythm is typically normal
-P wave may be hiddennidentifiable
-PR interval may be shortened or unmeasurable
68Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs) - Client Education
-Reassurance about condition being benign
-Monitor fatigue during exercise
-Stress reduction methods
-Avoiding smoking and alcohol
-Contact provider if palpitations or shortness of breath interfere with ADLs
69Premature Atrial Contraction (PACs) - Nursing Priority
-Identify potential triggers or causes for the PACs
70First-Degree Heart Block - Pathophysiology
-Signal is delayed when traveling through the right atrium to the AV node
*Signal is not actually blocked, just slowed down
71What medications can cause slowed AV conduction?
Antiarrhythmic medications
-Sodium channel blockers (Lidocaine)
-Beta blockers (Metroprolol)
-Calcium channel blockers (Diltiazem)
-Potassium channel blockers (Amiodarone)
-Cardiac glycosides (Digoxin)
-Magnesium
72First-Degree Heart Block - Etiology and Risk Factors
May be caused by:
-Increasing age
-History of cardiac disease (MI, CAD)
-Electrolyte imbalances (hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia)
-Endocarditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and COVID-19 can controbute
-Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and sarcoidosis
73First-Degree Heart Block - ECG
-Prolonged PR interval (>0.20 seconds)
-Consistent length
74First-Degree Heart Block - Role of Nurse
-Dietary habits/modifications (avoiding foods high in sodium, cholesterol, and triglycerides)
-Fall precaution from dizziness
Client education:
-Avoid smoking and alcohol
-Healthy, low-cholesterol diet
75Atrial Fibrillation - Pathophysiology
-Occurs when SA node is not firing appropriately
-Electrical impulses are rapid, chaotic, and irregular causing dysfunctional atrial contraction
-Cardiac output is decreased
-Blood clots can form
76Atrial Fibrillation - Etiology and Risk Factors
-Diabetes
-Hyperthyroidism
-Obstructive sleep apnea
-History of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
-Sedentary lifestyle with other comprbidities
-Clients recovering from cardiac surgery
77Atrial Fibrillation - Manifestations
-Dizziness or heart palpitations
-Difficulty tolerating usual exercise routines
-Hypotension
-Irregular pulse
-Weight gain and increased urination
78Atrial Fibrillation - Safety Considerations
-Monitor for signs of stroke
-Increased risk for spontaneous bleeding
79Atrial Fibrillation - Blood Tests
-May be precipitated by hyperthyroidism
-Thyroid function tests, CBC, creatinine, and glucose levels)
80Atrial Fibrillation - ECG Interpretation
-Overall rhythm is irregular
-P waves are replaced by indiscernable (unidentifiable) atrial activity between QRS complexes
-Ventricular rate can be normal (60-100) or increased (100-200)
81What is rapid ventricular response (RVR)?
An increased heart rate (>100bpm) in A-fib
82What is a transesophogeal echocardiogram (TEE)?
A detailed ultrasound, via the esophagus, that allows detailed images of the heart
83Atrial Fibrillation - Safety Considerations
-Increased fall risk (dizziness and lightheadedness)
-Increased risk of stroke, heart failure, and mortality
-Risk of bleeding (medications for treatment)
84Atrial Fibrillation - Client Education
-Contact provider if manifestations such as heart palpitations, chest pain, irregular heart rate, dizziness, increased fatigue, or shortness of breath
-Take precautions to reduce risk of bleeding (soft-bristled toothbrush, safety razors, avoiding high-risk activities)
85What herbal supplements decrease the effect of anticoagulants?
-Increases risk for clotting
-Coenzyme Q-10
-Ginseng
-Licorice
-St. John’s Wort
86What herbal supplements increase the effects of anticoagulants?
Increases risk for bleeding
-Danshen
-Evening primrose
-Ginkgo biloba
-Saw palmetto
87What is a pulse deficit?
An irregularity between apical and radial pulses obtained by subtracting the radial pulse from the apical pulse
88What is true about pulse deficit and atrial fibrillation?
Often the apical and radial pulse rates will differ in clients who have A-fib due to the irregularity of ventricular heart contractions
89What does an abnormal pulse deficit calculation indicate?
Inadequate cardiac output and potentially poor perfusion to the body’s organs
90Atrial Fibrillation - Goal of Treatment
-Optimal outcome is to convert heart rhythm back into NSR
91Atrial Fibrillation - Treatments and Therapies
-Administration of antiarrhythmic medications or the use of synchronized electrical conversion
92What is synchronized electrical cardioversion?
Delivering a timed electrical shock on the R wave to disrupt an irregular cardiac cycle
*Used when the client is unstable and not able to maintain blood pressure during episodes of atrial fibrillation
93Atrial Flutter - Pathophysiology
Common supraventricular (occurring before the ventricles) that occurs when the atria are beating in a regular rhythm and increased rate (240-400) caused by multiple rapid electrical impulses being sent and the AV node doesn’t have time to process it before transmission to the ventricles
94Atrial Flutter - Impact on Client’s Overall Health
-May have manifestations that negatively impact their ability to perform normal activities
-May experience lightheadedness or heart palpitations that make typical routines difficult
95Atrial Flitter - Clinical Presentation
-Hypotension
-Lightheadedness or dizziness
-Palpitations or chest discomfort
-Shortness of breath
-Fatigue
-Syncopal episodes
96Atrial Flutter - ECG Interpretation
-Overall rhythm is regular
-P waves are replaced by multiple sawtooth or flutter waves between QRS complexes
-Ventricular rate typically normal and atrial rate is increased (240-340)
97Atrial Flutter - Assessments
-Thorough medical history with onset of manifestations and to help identify causitive factors
-Carefully monitor vital signs to determine if client is tolerating the rhythm
98Atrial Flutter - Goal for Treatment
-Improve cardiac perfusion
-Control heart rate and blood pressure
-Prevent blood clot formation
99Atrial Flutter - Interventions
-Monitoring vital signs
-Administering antiarrhythmics and anticoagulants
-Preparing for cardioversion
100Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) - Pathophysiology
-Occurs when electrical impulses are originating from above the AV node causing excessive excitability of atrial tissue resulting in an increased heart rate
101Supraventricular Tachycardia - Triggers/causes
-Increased stress levels
-Smoking
-Caffeine (and other stimulating substances)
-History of heart failure
-Pregnancy
-Chronic lung disease
102Supraventricular Tachycardia - Impact on Overall Health
-May have increased levels of stress which can precipitate feelings of anxiety
-Leads to clients being unable to perform their usual exercise routines
103Supraventricular Tachycardia - Safety Considerations
-May have dizziness, lightheadedness, or syncopal episodes
-Increases fall risk
104Supraventricular Tachycardia - Clinical Presentation/Manifestations
-Sudden onset of heart palpitations or chest discomfort
-Dizziness or lightheadedness
-Shortness of breath
105Supraventricular Tachycardia - ECG Interpretation
-Regular rhythm
-Increased HR (100-220)
-Narrow QRS complex (<0.12 seconds)
-Undiscernable P wave
106Supraventricular Tachycardia - Client Education
-Vagal maneuvers (valsalva maneuver)
107What are the steps for the valsalva maneuver?
-Hold Breath
-Bear down as if having a bowl movement for 15 seconds
108Supraventricular Tachycardia - Treatments/Therapies
-Vagal maneuvers such as the Valsalva maneuver
-IV adenosine
109What does the P wave represent on an ECG?
Atrial depolarization
110What does the PR interval represent?
Related to the rate of cardiac impulse transmitted from the AV node
111What does the QRS complex represent?
Ventricular depolarization
112What is heart failure?
A complex, progressive clinical syndrome that occurs due to abnormalities in either the structure or function of the heart. This leads to decreased cardiac output and increased pressure within the heart while at rest or during stress.
113What is the pathophysiology of heart failure?
-Occurs when the heart is not able to meet the needs of the systemic circulatory system (either the ventricles are not filling properly, or the blood is not ejected into the system as it should)
-Conditions such as hypertension, CAD, uncontrolled arrhythmias, MI, and valve disease contribute to this
114What are the most common causes of heart failure?
CAD, MI, and diabetes
115How does age impact incidence of heart failure?
For each 10 years after a client reaches the age of 65, the incidence of heart failure doubles for men and triples for females in the same age group
116What are manifestations of heart failure?
-Shortness of breath
-Fatigue
-Weakness
-Difficulty sleeping
-Edema in lower extremities
117How does heart failure impact overall health?
Often, they are not able to carry out ADLs independently due to activity intolerance and must rely on a caregiver
118What are clinical manifestations of left-side heart failure?
-JVD
-Shortness of breath
-Hypotension w/tachycardia
-Orthopnea
-Exertional or paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
-Edema in lower extremities
-Weight gain
-Pulmonary congestion (rales and productive coughing with white or pink blood-tinged sputum)
119What are clinical manifestations of right-side heart failure?
-JVD
-Shortness of breath
-Chest discomfort
-S3
-Murmurs
-Palpitations
-Ascites (abnormal accumulation of fluid within the abdomen)
-Peripheral edema
-Generalized swelling
-Enlarged liver and spleen
120What are clinical manifestations of biventricular heart failure?
Manifestations of both left and right sided heart failure such as buildup of fluid and dyspnea
121What is paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea?
Shortness of breath that awakens a client from sleep, relieved when the client sits up
122What is a common tool often utilized by health care providers to assist in the diagnosis of heart failure?
Framingham Diagnostic Criteria for Heart Failure. To be diagnosed with heart failure, the client must meet two criteria from the major criteria section or one major criterion and two minor criteria
123What system is used to grade heart failure severity?
New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification system
-Grades based on severity of clinical manifestations at various stages of physical activity
124What is used to determine if dyspnea is cardiac related or noncardiac?
Serum B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) (blood test)
125What is used as a strong predictor for readmission to facilities and risk of death with heart failure?
BNP
126What is the treatment for heart failure due to an acute MI?
Cardiac catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) can decrease the damage caused by the MI
127What medications are used for heart failure?
-Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
-Angiotensin-receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs)
-Angiotensin II receptor blockers
-Beta blockers
-Aldosterone antagonists
-Hydralazine and isosorbide dinitrate
-Diuretics
128What is the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease (CAD)?
Narrowing or occlusion of the coronary artery that limits or blocks blood flow to the heart
129At what age does the risk for developing CAD increase?
-Men: 45
-Women: 55
130What is hyperlipidemia?
Elevated fat levels (triglycerides and cholesterol) in the blood
131What is the impact of CAD on overall health?
-Can experience chest pain or an MI
-Can cause the heart to weaken and the client to develop heart failure and arrhythmias
132How does mental health impact cardiac health?
Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, stress, and PTSD, can not only influence cardiac health after a cardiac incident, but also can contribute to the development of cardiac disorders
133What is the clinical presentation of CAD?
-Initially, manifestations are asymptomatic
-Chest discomfort (angina); may be associated with activity at first (stable angina), but can progress to chest pain occurring at rest (unstable angina)
-Pain can radiate to the left arm, the neck, jar, or back
-Diaphoresis
-Dizziness and lightheadedness
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Shortness of breath
-Weakness
134What are clinical manifestations of an MI in a female client?
*May not experience chest pain, instead, may experience:
-Extreme fatigue
-Dizziness
-Abdominal pain
-Nausea
-Pressure in the chest
135What is homocysteine?
An amino acid that the body uses to make proteins. Excess homocysteine in the blood can cause damage to the lining of the arteries and lead to blood clots or blockages in the arteries, increasing the risk for an MI
136What plays a key role in the development of atherosclerosis?
Inflammation
137What is a laboratory blood test used to detect inflammation?
C-reactive protein (CRP)
138What are Troponin I and T?
Cardiac enzymes that are highly sensitive to cardiac injury and can be detected in the blood serum within four hours from the onset of acute MI manifestations. Peak in 24-48 hours and can remain elevated for days
139What is creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB)?
An enzyme specific to the heart muscle; another serum cardiac marker that is valuable in diagnosing both cardiac and non-cardiac disorders. After MI, can be detected within 4 hr and peaks by 24 hr. Returns to normal in 2-3 days.
140What is myoglobin used to detect?
-myocardial injury
-It is a heme protein found in both cardiac and skeletal muscle
-Can be detected witnin one hour of MI and peaks within 4-12 hours, then returns to normal
141What laboratory tests are used to detect MI?
-Myoglobin
-Creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB)
-Troponin I and T
142What ECG changes suggest coronary artery occlusion?
Abnormal ST segment
-ST segment elevation or
-ST-segment depression or T wave inversion
143What is an angiogram?
An invasive procedure that involves injecting dye into a catheter that has been inserted into a large blood vessel in the groin, arm, or neck to visualize the chambers of the heart, the valves and the major blood vessels
144What is an exercise stress test?
-Client walks on a treadmill or rides a stationary bike with the speed and incline being incrementally increased during the test. The goal is for the client to reach 85% of the predicted heart rate for that client's age.
-ECGs are taken before, during, and after the stress test
-During exercise, heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, and respirations are monitored
145What is a stress echocardiogram?
-Used to detect how well the heart is functioning and if there is decreased blood flow to the heart that is caused by CAD
-A transducer (a device that sends sound waves that capture images of the heart structure) is moved across the client's chest during different levels of activity
146What is a nuclear stress test?
-A radioactive material (tracer) is injected into a client's vein for a nuclear stress test
-After circulating for 15-45 minutes, a special camers is used to scan the heart and take pictures
-Then the client performs exercise
-Once client has reached their maximum potential, the first two steps are repeated and compared to the first images
147What lifestyle changes are included for the treatment of CAD?
-Smoking cessation
-Heart-healthy diet (such as DASH diet)
-Obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight
-Becoming physically active
-Getting good-quality sleep for 7-9 hours a day
-Decreasing stress
-Controlling hypertension and diabetes
148What procedures are used for CAD?
-Angioplasty or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
-Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
149What condition is a contraindication for nasal decongestant use?
Can increase risk of dysrhythmias in clients with a-fib
150What procedures can be anticipated for a client with coronary artery disease that has progressed to an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)?
Cardiac catheterization and percutaneous intervention
151What is the recommended treatment for a client having a non-ST-elevation MI (NSTEMI)?
Heparin bolus followed by continuous infusion
152What blood test is used to evaluate cardiomyopathy severity?
Brain natrurietic peptide (BNP) - elevated levels indicate stretching of the ventricles from fluid overload
153What is a risk factor for chronic venous disease?
Standing for prolonged periods of time
154What are manifestations of acute pericarditis?
-Hiccups
-Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
-Chest pain
155What is the expected range for ankle-brachial index results (ABI) and what is it used to detect
0.9-1.2. Abnormal ABI is present in clients with peripheral artery disease. The test confirms the finding of decreased or absent pulses in the lower extremities
156Valvular Dysfunction - Pathophysiology
-If valves do not close completely, blood can back up into the chamber from which it came (regurgitation)
-If valves do not completely open, this causes a narrowed path for the blood to flow through (stenosis) due to progressive calcification of the valves
-This causes decreased blood flow and cardiac output, forcing the heart to work harder to pump the blood. Heart failure, cardiac arrest, and even death can occur as a result
157Valvular Dysfunction - Causes/Etiology
-Born with it (congenital heart valve disease) *most commonly affected is the bicuspid valve
-Rheumatic disease can occur after a client has strep throat that was not promptly treated with antibiotics
-Endocarditis, an infection of the inner layer of the heart, is caused by septicemia or IV drug use.
-Hypertension, MI, atherosclerosis of aorta, and heart failure
-Autoimmune disorders, exposure to high dose of radiation, and the aging process
158Valvular Dysfunction - Risk Factors
-Increased age
-Inactivity and unhealthy eating habits (foods high in fat and sodium, sweets, and sugar sweetened beverages)
-Smoking
-Obesity
-Family history of valvular disease
-Congenital defects
-Rheumatic fever, endocarditits, CAD, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia
159Valvular Dysfunction - Impact on Overall Health
-Can become debilitating for clients as the symptoms progress
-Can lead to heart failure, causing fluid overload resulting in edema and dyspnea
-Can have syncope which increases fall risk
160Valvular Dysfunction - Clinical Manifestations
-Palpitations
-Chest pain
-Heart murmur
-Fatigue
-Dizziness
-Weakness
-Dyspnea
-Arrhythmia
-Lower extremity edema
-Abdominal pain due to an enlarged liver
161What is the most common test used to diagnose valvular heart disease?
-Echocardiogram: Client lies on their left side and a sonographer moves a transducer that generates sound waves on the client's chest to create pictures of the heart
162What is orthopnea?
Shortness of breath when recumbent, relieved with sitting up or standing
163Valvular Dysfunction - Treatments and Therapies
-Many clients can be treated with drug therapy and careful monitoring, while others will require surgery
164Valvular Dysfunction - Drug Therapy
-Beta blockers, digoxin, and calcium channel blockers are used to control heart rate and help prevent arrhythmias
-Diuretics are used to control blood pressure and control fluid overload
-Vasodilators are used to reduce the workload of the heart
165What are manifestations of endocarditis?
Fever, chills, fatigue, and petechiae
166What is dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)?
-Most common type of cardiomyopathy
-Progressive cardiac anomaly that occurs when dilation of the ventricles impairs the heart's ability to contract
-The muscle fibers in the walls of the ventricles weaken and inneffective heart contractions cause a decrease in cardiac output that leads to heart failure
167What is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)?
-Cardiac disorder that results from hypertrophy or thickening of the left ventricular walls and septum.
-This doesn't allow for adequate blood refilling of the left ventricle, leading to a decrease in cardiac output
168What is restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM)?
-Typically has a poor prognosis and is the lease common type of cardiomyopathy
-Characterized by stiffness of the ventricles, which causes a decrease in diastolic ventricular filling
169What is arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM)?
-Occurs when ventricular wall muscle fibers are replaced with fibrous, fatty tissue.
-This causes electrical instability and lethal dysrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, that can lead to sudden cardiac death
170What is amyloidosis?
Abnormal accumulation of amyloid protein within the heart tissues
171What is sarcoidosis?
An inflammatory disease that causes an abnormal accumulation of inflammatory cells on major organs
172What are the risk factors, comorbidities, and epidemiology of cardiomyopathy?
Cardiomyopathy is closely associated with heart failure, and the risk factors, comorbidities, and epidemiology are the same
173DCM - Clinical Presentation
*Dilated Cardiomyopathy
-Chest discomfort
-Peripheral edema
-Exponentially increasing levels of fatigue as the condition progresses
-Exertionial dyspnea
174HCM - Clinical Presentation
*Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
-Some clients may be asymptomatic
-Fatigue
-Syncopal episodes
-Chest discomfort or palpitations
-Exhaustion
-Dyspnea
-Increased risk of sudden cardiac death, especially in clients without manifestations
175RCM - Clinical Manifestations
*Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
-Progress over time and are similar to the heart failure manifestations
176ACM - Clinical Manifestations
*Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM)
-Found to be caused by a genetic defect
-Closely associated with heart failure and the risk factors, comorbidities, and epidemiology are the same
177Cardiomyopathy - Impact on Overall Health
-Need to make lifestyle modifications that will require ongoing management and modifications
-At risk of developing depression due to the loss of the ability to function independently
-Clients with arrhythmogenic or restrictive cardiomyopathy are at an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, particularly when participating in competitive recreational sports
178Cardiomyopathy - Client Education
-Frequent monitoring of vital signs and evaluation of the effectiveness of medications will be essential to ensure improved client outcomes
-Encourage lifestyle modifications such as reducing dietary intake of sodium, restricting fluids to approximately 2L each day, and eliminating or decreasing use of nicotine and alcohol
-Pace themself during exercise and activity and take rest periods as needed
-Monitor weight daily and for lower extremity edema
179Cardiomyopathy - Priority of Care
Improve cardiac output and quality of life
180Pericarditis - Pathophysiology
-Occurs when the pericardial sac of the heart becomes inflamed
-Untreated pericarditis may develop into a chronic inflammatory condition that can result in the pericardium becoming rigid and constricted
181Pericarditis - Etiology and Risk Factors
-Usually unknown
-May follow a GI or flu-like illness
-Acute pericarditis can occur following cardiac procedures
-Bacterial infections, lung and breast cancer, lymphoma, and autoimmune disorders
-People who have a previous diagnosis of pericarditis
182Pericarditis - Clinical Manifestations
-Chest palpitations or pain
-Syncopal episodes or dizziness
-Hiccups
-Dysphagia
-Low-grade fever
-Recent weight loss
-Pericardial friction rub
183Pericarditis - ECG Interpretationi
-Possible PR interval depression
-Possible ST segment elevation
184What is pericardial effusion?
Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac that surrounds the heart
185Pericarditis - Client Education
-Importance of avoiding strenuous exercise and activities until a resolution of symptoms and cardiac markers as it can trigger exercise-induced tachycardia and add unnecessary stress to the pericardium
186Differentiating Pericardial Friction Rub from Pleural Friction Rub
While auscultating heart sounds for a client with pericarditis, ask the client to hold their breath. If squeaky, scratchy sounds are still heard, this is a pericardial frictioni rub. A pleural friction rub can only be heard during inspiration
187What chronic medical conditions are associated with pericarditis?
Hypertension, renal disease, and diabetes mellitus
188Pericarditis - Drug Therapy
-NSAIDs
-Colchicine: targets the pain and inflammatory processes associated with pericarditis. Taken for three months and has been found to decrease the recurrence of pericarditis
-Glucocorticoids: for clients who cannot tolerate NSAIDs
189Pericardial Effusion - Pathophysiology
-Pressure created from the excess fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac compresses the heart and the chamgers are unable to expand for refilling of blood
-Cardiac output is significantly decreased
190What is cardiac tamponade?
Emergent complication that occurs when the pericardial effusion has generated an xcessive accumulation of fluid, greater than 200 mL, within the pericardial sac
191Pericardial Effusion - Clinical Presentation
-Elevated temperature
-Chest pain or discomfort
-Dry cough
-Shortness of breath with exertion or when laying supine
192Pericardial Effusion - ECG Interpretation
-Sinus tachycardia
-Low voltage QRS complexes (determined by a decrease in vertical amplitude)
193Pericardial Effusion - Safety Consideration
-Frequent cardiac focused assessments
-Client will require pericardiocentesis to remove excess fluid to avoid cardiac arrest. Assess for bleeding risk (anticoagulant use or history of thrombocytopenia)
194What is thrombocytopenia?
Lack of sufficient platelets that slows blood clotting time
195Pericardial Effusion - Assessment
-Assess for fatigue, edema, dyspnea, and chest pain that is worst when lying down
-Closely monitor for manifestations of hemodynamic instability, such as hypotension, sinus tachycardia, and muffled heart sounds.
196What happens if a patient with pericardial effusioni becomes hemodynamically unstable?
The client will be transferred to the ICU
197What is periheral vascular disease (PVD)?
A general term used to describe progressive conditions characterized by altered blood flow through vessels in areas outside of the heart. Often divided into three categories:
-Peripheral venous disease: involves the veins that carry deoxygenated blood back from the lower extremities to the heart
-Peripheral artery disease (PAD): affects blood flow to the arteries in the lower extremities
-Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
198PAD - Pathophysiology, Symptoms, and Treatment
-Narrowing of arteries that interrupts blood flow away from heart=no O2 to legs
-Symptoms: PAINS
Pressure (increased BP), Absence of hair,
Intermittent Claudication, No palpable pulse, skin cool
-Treatment: Antiplatelets to decrease blood clots, statins to decrease cholesterol, ACE/ARBs to decrease BP, low fat diet and exercise, DANGLE LEGS
199PVD - Pathophysiology, Symptoms, and Treatments
-Narrowing of veins that interrupts blood flow back to the heart=POOLing of blood
-Symptoms: WIPED
Warm and brown extremities, Itching skin, Prolonged standing/sitting pain, Edema, Dull ache
-Treatment: Anticoagulants to decrease blood clots, statins to decrease cholesterol, thrombolytics to dissolve clot, compression stocking, elevate legs
200NCLEX Tip for PAD and PVD
-PAD: dAngle legs
-PVD: eleVate legs
201What are some characteristics of preeclampsia?
-Pregnancy specific
-New-onset hypertension and proteinuria
-Occurs after 20 weeks gestation
202What are severe signs of preeclampsia?
-Severe hypertension (>160/>110)
-End-organ damage: kidney damage evidenced by decreased urine output, liver damage as evidenced by jaundice or epigastric pain
-Hyperreflexia, headache, blurred vision, confusion, numbness
203What are clinical manifestations of eclampsia?
Seizure that develops before, during, or after the labor
204What is the treatment of preeclampsia?
Ultimate treatment is delivery of baby
205What medications are used to treat severe preeclampsia?
-For hypertension: IV labetalol and hydralazine, oral nifedipine
-Labor induction and antenatal corticosteroids to facilitate fetal lung development
206What do you need to have on hand when administering magnesium sulfate to a pregnant patient?
Calcium gluconate
207What is HELLP syndrome?
A complication of preeclampsia characterized by hemodialysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets
208What are complications of dyslipidemia?
-Atherosclerosis, peripheral arterial disease, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular accident, and hypertension
209What is dyslipidemia defined by?
-Elevated total cholesterol (TC)
-Elevated LDL
-Elevated Non-HDL
-Elevated triglycerides
-Decreased HDL
210Why is pediatric dyslipidemia important?
When recognized and treated in childhood, can reduce risk of premature adverse cardiovascular events and mortality
211What is important to know about a lipid panel test?
Should ideally be done after fasting for 8-9 hours
212What is an ectopic pregnancy?
Occurs when fetal tissue implants outside of the uterus or attaches to an abnormal or scarred portion of the uterus
213What complications are associated with ectopic pregnancy?
High rates of morbidity and mortality if not recognized and treated promptly
214What are clinical manifestations of ectopic pregnancy?
-Pain
-Vaginal bleeding
-More vague complaints such as nausea and vomiting
215What diagnostic test is used to diagnose suspected ectopic pregnancy?
Transvaginal untrasound, pregnancy test