What do patients aged 20 and older need every five years?
A fasting lipid panel.
What dietary emphasis is suggested for reducing cardiovascular risk?
Increased intake of plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while minimizing red meat and processed foods.
What lifestyle change should be encouraged to reduce hypertension?
Smoking cessation.
What is Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?
An emergency condition characterized by acute onset of myocardial ischemia, leading to potential myocardial death.
What are the typical symptoms of a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (non-STEMI)?
Elevated cardiac enzymes, chest pain, and other pre-infarction symptoms.
What should be performed within 10 minutes of a patient arriving in the ER with symptoms of ACS?
An EKG.
What are cardiac enzymes tested for to assess myocardial damage?
Troponins, myoglobin, and creatinine kinase (CK).
What initial treatments are often given to a patient experiencing ACS?
Oxygen, nitroglycerin, and morphine.
What is the goal of administering medications like alteplase during an ACS event?
To dissolve a thrombus and minimize infarction size.
What does CABG stand for?
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft.
What vein is commonly used during a CABG procedure?
The greater saphenous vein.
What is the purpose of the cardiopulmonary bypass machine during a CABG?
To remove blood from the patient and maintain perfusion to body organs and tissues while the heart is stopped.
What phase of cardiac rehab focuses on education for patients post-CABG?
Phase 1.
What should be monitored for post-CABG surgery?
Hemodynamic stability, bleeding, and signs of infection.
What emotional state might patients experience prior to CABG surgery?
Anxiety and fear.
What is the importance of obtaining a type and screen before surgery?
To prepare for potential blood transfusions post-surgery.
What potential complication should be monitored for post-CABG?
Decreased cardiac output.
What common symptom might an older adult exhibit during a myocardial infarction?
Shortness of breath.
What changes in vital signs might occur due to decreased blood flow post-stent placement?
Lower heart rate and blood pressure.
What is the postoperative care for a patient who has had stent placement?
Monitor the insertion site's discomfort and ensure proper blood flow.
What psychological support can help patients prepare for open heart surgery?
Educating them about what to expect in the operating room.
What does the term 'pre-infarction' refer to?
Symptoms indicating a potential upcoming myocardial infarction.
What is a common physical response when inflation of a balloon catheter is performed during a procedure?
Chest pain.
What role does the perfusionist play during CABG?
They monitor the cardiopulmonary bypass machine and manage patient blood circulation during surgery.
What educational support is important for families during a patient's CABG recovery?
Understanding the patient's condition and how to monitor their health.
Why is oxygen often administered post-ACS?
To decrease myocardial ischemia and improve oxygen delivery to the heart.
What signifies that a patient is ready to be transferred from the ICU following CABG?
Stabilization of cardiopulmonary status and successful weaning off the ventilator.
What is a common procedure done to visualize coronary blood flow and blockages?
Cardiac catheterization.
What might indicate complications during or after a CABG procedure?
Signs of arrhythmias, MI, or arterial dissection.
How long should a patient remain on bed rest post-stent placement?
Approximately 6 hours.
What can increase troponin levels aside from a heart attack?
Conditions such as sepsis or heart failure.
What is a common procedural step following stent placement?
Monitoring pulse and vital signs at the insertion site.
What complication could arise from inserting a stent in a blocked artery?
The artery could collapse or cause an arrhythmia.
What is the leading cause of death worldwide?
Cardiovascular disease.
What is hypertension?
A condition of persistently elevated blood pressure.
What are common risk factors for cardiovascular disease?
Smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, and inactivity.
What kind of diet promotes heart health?
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
What is the role of LDL cholesterol?
LDL cholesterol is often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol because it can lead to plaque buildup in arteries.
What does HDL cholesterol do?
HDL cholesterol is known as 'good' cholesterol and helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream.
What is a myocardial infarction?
A heart attack, caused by interrupted blood flow to the heart.
What lifestyle changes can help manage hypertension?
Reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight.
What is cardiac rehabilitation?
A medically supervised program to improve cardiovascular health after heart-related illnesses.
What can trigger an acute coronary event?
Stress, physical exertion, and severe emotional upset.
What are common symptoms of heart failure?
Shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention.
How does regular exercise benefit the heart?
It strengthens the heart muscle, lowers blood pressure, and improves circulation.
What is coronary artery disease?
A condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries.
What screening test is recommended for women over 45?
A fasting lipid panel to assess cholesterol levels.
What is the role of anticoagulants in ACS?
To prevent blood clot formation and reduce the risk of another heart attack.
What is a stent used for?
To keep arteries open after being blocked or narrowed.
Why are heart-healthy fats important?
They can reduce inflammation and promote lower cholesterol levels.
What effect does smoking have on cardiovascular health?
It increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
What benefits does omega-3 fatty acids provide?
They lower triglycerides and reduce the risk of arrhythmias.
What is the purpose of blood pressure medication?
To help manage hypertension and reduce cardiovascular risk.