Uworld Cardiology

Shock

A state of decreased tissue perfusion resulting in inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues.

Decreased tissue perfusion

A condition where blood flow to tissues is reduced, leading to insufficient oxygen supply.

Aerobic to anaerobic metabolism

A metabolic switch that cells undergo when oxygen supply is low, potentially leading to organ dysfunction.

Peripheral perfusion

Blood flow to the skin and extremities, such as the hands and feet.

Capillary refill

The time it takes for blood to return to capillaries after being compressed, normal is ≤2 seconds.

Signs of poor peripheral perfusion

Delayed capillary refill, pale/cool/mottled skin, weak/absent pulses, cyanosis.

Heart failure

A condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively, causing blood to back up and leading to pulmonary congestion.

Pulmonary edema

Accumulation of fluid in the lungs due to heart failure.

Dyspnea

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Orthopnea

Shortness of breath when lying flat.

Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND)

Sudden nighttime breathlessness that awakens the individual.

Crackles (rales)

Abnormal lung sounds indicating fluid in the alveoli.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

A blood clot in a deep vein, often in the leg, with potential to cause pulmonary embolism.

Virchow’s Triad

The three factors contributing to thrombosis: venous stasis, endothelial injury, and hypercoagulability.

Unilateral leg swelling (edema)

Swelling in one leg, a hallmark finding of DVT.

Pulmonary embolism

A major complication of DVT involving a blood clot moving to the lungs.

Orthostatic hypotension

A drop in blood pressure upon standing, causing decreased cerebral perfusion.

Safety Before Assessment

The principle that safety must come before further assessment in cases of immediate risk.

Hallmark Findings of Shock

Delayed capillary refill and cool/pale skin.

ABCs

Airway, Breathing, Circulation – the priority sequence in emergency care.

Nursing Interventions for DVT

Notify provider, measure calf circumference, prepare for ultrasound, and administer anticoagulants.