EMS Chapter 5

Pathophysiology

pathophysiology definition

how disease processes affect how the body functions

perfusion

circulation of blood through tissues

cardiopulmonary system

respiratory and cardiovascular system working together

what happens when perfusion fails?

SHOCK

aerobic vs anaerobic metabolism

aerobic: enough glucose and oxygen

anaerobic: occurs when not enough oxygen

(can’t make lots of energy. overuses waste products)

patent

open and clear. no obstructions and stuff

bronchoconstriction

lower respiratory tract

muscle spasm around small tubes in the lungs (bronchioles) - reduces airflow

causes: asthma, allergic reactions

breathing averages

12 - 20 breathes per minute (adult at rest)

tidal volume of 500 mL of air (adult at rest. Often lower for females)

medulla’s function

in brain - controls breathing (initiates breathing, inhaling stuff)

strokes and brain tumors (and brain trauma) affect this area

dehydration signs

dry eyes, sunken eyes, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure

edema

poor fluid distributation

causes swelling in ankles and feet

Permeability problems

when capillary leaks fluid

causes infections + diseases

hypertension

AKA High blood pressure

cardiac output

amount of blood ejected from heart in 1 min

(function of stroke volume + heart rate)

average is 5 liters per minute

heart rates over 180

actually decrease stroke volume, cause heart doesn’t have time to fill up entirely

compensation

if drop in blood pressure (cause lesson blood overall), the blood vessels narrow