Cardiovascular Exam Concept Guide

Flashcards covering key concepts related to cardiovascular exams and their management.

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging; evaluates cardiac tissue integrity, detects aneurysms, and assesses coronary artery patency.

Pacemaker

A device that regulates heartbeats; patients should avoid lifting the arm on the pacemaker side and refrain from using high-output electrical generators.

Cardiac Catheterization

A procedure to diagnose and treat certain cardiovascular conditions; involves introducing a catheter into the heart.

Dyazide

A diuretic that increases water, sodium, potassium, and chloride excretion; used to treat hypertension and edema.

Furosemide (Lasix)

A diuretic that blocks sodium and chloride reabsorption in the kidneys, promoting powerful diuresis.

Hypokalemia

Low potassium levels in the blood (<3.5 mEq/L) that can cause muscle weakness and cardiac dysrhythmias.

Beta Blockers

Medications that block beta-1 receptors, decreasing heart rate and cardiac output.

Nitroglycerin (Nitro)

A nitrate medication used to treat angina; can be administered sublingually or transdermally.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Condition caused by narrowing of coronary arteries due to plaque buildup, leading to reduced blood flow.

Hypertension (HTN)

A chronic condition characterized by elevated blood pressure, often called the 'silent killer'.

Captopril

An ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure by relaxing blood vessels.

Myocardial Infarction (MI)

A heart attack caused by the obstruction of blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to tissue ischemia and necrosis.

Troponin

A protein used as a biomarker for myocardial infarction; elevated levels indicate heart muscle damage.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

An imaging test that provides detailed images of the heart and is performed with the patient under sedation.

Heart Failure

A condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, leading to congestion.

Digoxin

A medication that increases cardiac contractility and decreases heart rate; risk of toxicity exists.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

A circulatory condition characterized by narrowed arteries reducing blood flow to the limbs.

Heparin

An anticoagulant used to prevent and treat blood clots.

Warfarin

An anticoagulant that prevents blood clots by inhibiting vitamin K; requires monitoring of INR levels.

Varicose Veins

Enlarged veins that can be treated with elastic support hose and lifestyle changes.

Sequential Compression Devices (SCDs)

Devices that enhance venous circulation by alternately compressing and releasing the legs.