Vascular and Cardiac Diseases

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to vascular and cardiac diseases, including definitions, signs, symptoms, and nursing interventions.

Vascular

Related to the blood vessels in the circulatory system.

Venous Circulation

Carries deoxygenated blood from the extremities back to the heart.

Arterial Circulation

Carries oxygenated blood that flows to the extremities.

Venous Disease

Conditions affecting the veins, including poor blood flow and blood clots.

Arterial Disease

Conditions affecting the arteries, leading to restricted blood flow.

Risk Factors for Venous Disease

Factors increasing the risk, such as smoking, high cholesterol, and obesity.

Atherosclerosis

A condition where arteries become narrowed due to plaque buildup.

Reynaud’s Disease

Vasospasm causing reduced blood flow, mainly to fingers and toes.

Buerger’s Disease

A disease where blood vessels swell, leading to clots and tissue damage.

Varicose Veins

Enlarged veins resulting from weakened valve function.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

A blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs.

Intermittent Claudication

Leg discomfort or pain that occurs during activity and is relieved by rest.

Signs of Venous Insufficiency

Symptoms including swelling, varicose veins, and discomfort in the legs.

Skin changes in Arterial Disease

Cool, thin, dry skin; hairless; and thick toenails.

Skin changes in Venous Disease

Warm, thick, tough skin; brownish discoloration.

Pulses in Arterial Disease

Very poor or absent pulse strength.

Pulses in Venous Disease

Normal pulse strength, typically present.

Edema in Arterial Disease

Absent edema.

Edema in Venous Disease

Presence of edema, especially at the end of the day.

Lesion Locations in Arterial Disease

End of toes, top of feet, lateral ankle region.

Lesion Appearance in Arterial Disease

Little drainage, necrotic, with noticeable margins.

Lesion Locations in Venous Disease

Medial parts of lower legs and medial ankle region.

Lesion Appearance in Venous Disease

Swollen, with drainage and granulation present.

Nursing Assessment for Arterial Disease

Includes pulses, color, temperature, pain level, and sensation.

Nursing Interventions for Arterial Disease

Quit smoking, avoid constrictive clothing, and manage medications.

Per MD/APRN Orders

Following medical directives to manage patient care.

Heparin Drips

Intravenous anticoagulation therapy to prevent clot formation.

Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty

A minimally invasive procedure to open narrowed arteries.

Surgical Intervention for Severed Arteries

Arterial bypass or amputation in severe cases.

Preventing Venous Stasis

Elevate legs and wear compression stockings to promote circulation.

Signs of Clots in Venous Disease

Red, swollen, painful, and warm areas indicating potential DVT.

Potential Complications of DVT

Risk of pulmonary embolism or stroke if clots dislodge.

Pericarditis

Inflammation of the pericardium, often due to infections or trauma.

Acute Pericarditis

Short-term inflammation lasting less than 6 weeks.

Chronic Pericarditis

Long-term inflammation lasting more than 6 months.

Signs and Symptoms of Pericarditis

Chest pain, fever, pain worsened by breathing or lying flat.

Cardiac Tamponade

Emergency condition where fluid accumulation impairs heart function.

Osler's Nodes

Tender, red lesions on hands and feet associated with endocarditis.

Janeway Lesions

Painless erythematous lesions on palms or soles in endocarditis.

Endocarditis

Inflammation of the endocardium, usually affecting heart valves.

Acute Infective Endocarditis

Rapid onset with severe symptoms in patients with healthy valves.

Subacute Infective Endocarditis

Slower onset affecting those with pre-existing heart conditions.

Risk Factors for Endocarditis

Include history of heart valve issues, IV drug use, and dental procedures.

Petechiae

Small red or purple spots on the body indicating bleeding.

Signs of Heart Failure with Endocarditis

Symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, and high fever.

Monitor in Endocarditis Care

Assess for embolic episodes and vital signs closely.

IV Antibiotics

Administered for endocarditis, often requiring a central line.

Patient Education for Endocarditis

Includes prophylaxis in high-risk groups and proper oral care.

Nutritional Support for Wound Healing

Emphasizes the importance of nutrition in recovery from vascular issues.