Pulmonary Embolism and Cystic Fibrosis Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to pulmonary embolism and cystic fibrosis, including definitions, symptoms, risk factors, treatments, and underlying pathophysiology.

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

A condition where one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked by a blood clot.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

The formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs.

Emboli

Substances, such as blood clots or fat, that travel through the bloodstream and can block blood vessels.

Fat Emboli

Fat droplets that enter the bloodstream, usually linked to traumatic fractures like in large bones.

Risk Factors for DVT

Obesity, immobility, surgery, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and age.

Right Side of the Heart

Receives deoxygenated blood from the body and pumps it to the lungs.

Microvasculature

The smallest blood vessels in the body, including capillaries where gas exchange occurs.

Gas Exchange

The process of oxygen entering the blood and carbon dioxide exiting, occurring in the lungs.

Dead Space

Areas in the lungs that are ventilated but not perfused with blood, leading to inadequate gas exchange.

Pulmonary Hypertension

High blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs.

Surfactant

A substance that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing collapse and aiding in gas exchange.

Vasoconstriction

Narrowing of blood vessels, which increases blood pressure but can lead to decreased blood flow.

Symptoms of PE

Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, possible hemoptysis, anxiety, and tachycardia.

D-Dimer Test

A blood test used to rule out the presence of a significant blood clot.

CT Angiography

An imaging test that uses X-rays to visualize blood flow in arteries and veins.

Anticoagulants

Medications that prevent blood clots from forming, such as heparin and warfarin.

Thrombus

A blood clot that forms in a vessel and remains attached to its place of origin.

Increased Respiratory Rate

A physiological response to insufficient oxygenation, often seen in patients with PE.

Risk Factor Stratification

Assessing a patient's risk for developing DVT/PE based on various factors.

Saddle Embolism

A large embolism that blocks both branches of the pulmonary artery, leading to severe respiratory distress.

Deep Breathing Exercises

Techniques used to improve lung expansion and promote gas exchange.

Pulmonary Toileting

Techniques aimed at clearing mucus from the airways in patients with pulmonary issues.

Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy

Treatment for cystic fibrosis patients to help them digest food by replacing missing enzymes.

Intussusception

A condition where part of the intestine telescopes into itself, which can cause blockages.

Genetic Mutation in CF

A change in the CFTR gene leading to cystic fibrosis, affecting chloride and sodium transport.

Carrier Status

A person who has one normal and one mutated gene, which does not manifest symptoms but can pass the mutation to offspring.

Autosomal Recessive Disorder

A genetic condition that requires two copies of the mutated gene to manifest, such as cystic fibrosis.

Cystic Fibrosis Symptoms

Chronic cough, difficulty breathing, and poor growth; can also affect digestive and reproductive systems.

Mucolytics

Medications that thin mucus, making it easier to expel and preventing respiratory complications.

Chest Physiotherapy (CPT)

Manual or mechanical methods to help clear mucus from the lungs.

Salty Skin

A hallmark symptom of cystic fibrosis, due to abnormal salt retention and sweat production.

Hemoptysis

Coughing up blood, which can occur with severe pulmonary conditions.

Ventilation-Perfusion (V/Q) Scan

A medical test that evaluates the air and blood flow in the lungs.

Reproductive Complications in CF

In males, blockages in the vas deferens lead to infertility; women may experience delayed menstruation.

Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR)

The gene that is mutated in cystic fibrosis, responsible for chloride channel functioning.

Cystic Fibrosis Treatment

Includes airway clearance techniques, enzyme replacements, and management of infections.

Chronic Digestive Problems

Common in cystic fibrosis due to insufficient pancreatic enzymes leading to malabsorption.

Pulmonary Function Tests

Tests that assess lung function and the severity of lung disease.

Emergency Interventions for PE

Immediate treatments include anticoagulation, oxygen therapy, and possibly thrombolytics.

SCDs (Sequential Compression Devices)

Devices used to prevent DVT in patients who are immobile; contraindicated once a clot is confirmed.

IVC Filter

A device placed in the inferior vena cava to prevent clots from reaching the lungs.

Signs of Bleeding

Include bruising, hypotension, and blood in urine or stools, requiring close monitoring in anticoagulated patients.

Infection Prevention for CF

Patients should avoid sick individuals and practice good hygiene to reduce infection risk.

Pulmonary Acceleration

Increased heart rate and pressure due to strain from acute respiratory issues.