Adult Nursing 1 - Respiratory and Cardiovascular Systems

These flashcards cover key concepts about the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, including definitions, functions, diseases, treatments, and clinical manifestations.

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

Gas exchange.

List three key organs of the respiratory system.

Nose/Nasal Cavity, Pharynx, Larynx.

What are alveoli?

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.

What does PaO₂ measure?

The oxygen level in the blood.

What is the normal range for PaO₂?

75-100 mmHg.

What is ABG and what does it measure?

Arterial Blood Gas; it measures oxygen (O₂), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and acidity (pH) of arterial blood.

What is pharyngitis?

Inflammation of the pharynx, commonly referred to as a sore throat.

What is the most common cause of pharyngitis?

Viral infections.

What is a peritonsillar abscess?

A collection of pus in the peritonsillar space, often a complication of acute tonsillitis.

What are the main causes of atherosclerosis?

High cholesterol, smoking, hypertension, diabetes.

What is coronary artery disease (CAD)?

A condition caused by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis.

What are the two types of angina associated with CAD?

Stable angina and unstable angina.

What are common clinical manifestations of congestive cardiac failure (CCF)?

Dyspnea, fatigue, peripheral edema, orthopnea.

What is rheumatic fever?

An inflammatory disease that can develop after an untreated infection with Group A Streptococcus.

What is a common treatment for aortic aneurysms?

Surgical repair for large or symptomatic aneurysms.

What is the primary clinical manifestation of venous stasis ulcers?

Chronic, non-healing wounds occurring due to impaired venous circulation.

What is pneumonia?

An infection of the lung parenchyma leading to inflammation of the alveoli and impaired gas exchange.

List the four types of pneumonia.

Community-acquired pneumonia, hospital-acquired pneumonia, ventilator-associated pneumonia, aspiration pneumonia.

What is the first line treatment for bacterial pneumonia?

Antibiotic therapy.

What is the main purpose of patient education in cardiac care?

Promote lifestyle changes, medication adherence, and recognizing signs of angina or heart attack.