RCIS Exam Questions and Answers 2025

These flashcards contain key terminology and definitions for important cardiac and hemodynamic concepts essential for the RCIS exam.

Cardiac Output (CO)

The formula for calculating cardiac output is CO = Heart Rate (HR) x Stroke Volume (SV).

Stroke Volume (SV)

The volume of blood pumped from one ventricle of the heart with each beat, primarily influenced by preload and afterload.

Preload

The degree of stretch of the cardiac muscle fibers at the end of diastole, influenced by blood volume.

Afterload

The resistance the left ventricle must overcome to pump blood to the aorta.

Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP)

Calculated by the formula MAP = (1/3 × Systolic BP) + (2/3 × Diastolic BP).

Right Ventricular End-Diastolic Pressure (RVEDP)

Pressure in the right ventricle at the end of diastole, increased in conditions like RV infarct.

Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure (PCWP)

Indirectly measures left atrial pressure and reflects left ventricular preload.

Ejection Fraction (EF)

The percentage of blood the left ventricle pumps out with each contraction; a measure of cardiac efficiency.

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)

A congenital defect characterized by a hole in the wall between the heart's atria.

Total Peripheral Resistance (TPR)

The resistance to blood flow throughout the entire circulatory system, influenced by blood vessel diameter.

Thermodilution Cardiac Output

A method to measure cardiac output by using a temperature change after injecting a known volume of fluid.

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)

Refers to a range of conditions associated with sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart.

Dopamine Administration

Administered to improve renal function at low doses (1-5 mcg/kg/min), increasing urine output.

Vasopressin

A hormone used in ACLS for vasoconstriction, offering advantages over epinephrine during CPR.

Thrombolytics (tPA)

Medications used to dissolve blood clots, often used during myocardial infarction.

Antiplatelet Agents

Drugs that prevent the aggregation of platelets, e.g., ASA (Aspirin), Clopidogrel (Plavix).

Cardiac Tamponade

A condition where fluid accumulates in the pericardial sac, restricting heart movement and function.

Aortic Stenosis

Narrowing of the aortic valve causing pressure overload in the left ventricle.

Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)

A mechanical pump used to support heart function and blood flow in people with weakened hearts.

Myocardial Infarction (MI)

Damage to the heart muscle due to inadequate blood supply, often referred to as a heart attack.