Cardiovascular and Respiratory Exam Review

A collection of flashcards to help review key topics in cardiovascular and respiratory health, focusing on ischemic heart disease, cardiac conditions, patient management strategies, and significant related physiology.

What is Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD)?

A condition in which myocardial muscle is starved of oxygen and nutrients.

What occurs during coronary artery occlusion?

Blood flow to the heart is reduced, which can lead to ischemia and damage to the heart muscle.

What is the main function of the sodium-potassium pump?

To remove 3 sodium ions from the cell while bringing in 2 potassium ions, helping to maintain membrane potential.

What determines the membrane potential in cardiac cells?

The concentration of potassium ions (K+) mainly determines the membrane potential.

When do sodium channels open in cardiac cells?

Sodium channels open at -70mV.

What happens to intracellular calcium during ischemia?

Calcium is expelled from the cell, leading to an influx of sodium and a disturbance in ion balance.

What is Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?

A term that encompasses a range of conditions associated with sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart, including STEMI, NSTEMI, and unstable angina.

What is the key difference between STEMI and NSTEMI?

STEMI is a complete occlusion of a coronary artery, while NSTEMI is an incomplete blockage.

What are some signs of a heart attack?

Signs can include chest pain, sweating, pallor, nausea, and dizziness.

What is the role of MONA in ACS management?

MONA refers to morphine, oxygen, nitrates, and aspirin—medications used as immediate treatment for acute coronary syndrome.

What is the purpose of using dual antiplatelet therapy in STEMI?

To prevent thrombus formation and improve patient outcomes following coronary intervention.

Which drug is a reversible antagonist of the P2Y12 receptor?

Ticagrelor.

What is the role of GRACE in ACS management?

It is a scoring system that estimates 6-month mortality risk in patients with NSTEMI or unstable angina.

What type of anticoagulation is contraindicated in renal impairment?

Low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) should not be given if renal clearance is below 30ml/min.

What are common symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

Chronic dyspnea, cough, sputum production, and wheezing.

How is asthma characterized?

As a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, leading to bronchoconstriction.

What is the role of bronchodilators in asthma treatment?

To reverse bronchospasm during acute attacks.

Which agents are commonly used as anti-inflammatory drugs in asthma?

Glucocorticoids (like inhaled corticosteroids) and leukotriene receptor antagonists.

What are some adverse effects of steroid use in asthma patients?

Long-term use can lead to oropharyngeal candidiasis and systemic side effects like weight gain.

What is the recommended first-line treatment for stable angina?

Beta-blockers or calcium channel antagonists.

Which cardiovascular conditions can elevate the risk of atrial fibrillation?

Hypertension, heart disease, obesity, and sleep apnea.

What is the main goal of cardiac rehabilitation?

To help patients recover from cardiac events and improve overall cardiovascular health.

What is the main concern with excessive potassium levels (hyperkalemia)?

It can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and potentially cardiac arrest.

What causes renal damage in dehydration?

Reduced blood flow to the kidneys leads to potential acute tubular necrosis.

How is chronic kidney disease (CKD) defined?

CKD is characterized by marked abnormalities in kidney function that persist for more than 3 months.

What is the significance of urine output in assessing kidney function?

Reduced urine output can indicate AKI and needs to be monitored carefully.

What is the common management for kidney transplant patients?

Immunosuppressive therapy to prevent organ rejection.

Why are anticoagulants used in patients with atrial fibrillation?

To reduce the risk of stroke caused by thromboembolic events.