Congestive Heart Failure

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to Congestive Heart Failure, including definitions, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment strategies, and management.

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

A condition in which the heart is unable to pump effectively to meet the body's metabolic demands.

Left-sided heart failure

Characterized by symptoms such as pulmonary congestion and decreased cardiac output due to left ventricle dysfunction.

Right-sided heart failure

Occurs when the right ventricle fails, leading to systemic venous congestion and fluid retention.

BiVentricular heart failure

A condition involving both left and right-sided heart failure.

Asymptomatic (Stage I)

No symptoms present, but heart failure is diagnosed.

Fatigue

A common symptom of CHF caused by the heart's inability to pump effectively, leading to insufficient oxygenation of tissues.

BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide)

A hormone released in response to heart failure that can be measured to help diagnose CHF.

ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation)

A life support technique that uses a heart-lung machine to take over the function of the heart and lungs.

ACE inhibitors

Medications that are first-line treatments for CHF, helping to decrease morbidity and mortality.

Patient education for CHF

Involves teaching clients about the condition, management strategies, dietary restrictions, and when to seek emergency care.

Risk factors for CHF

Include coronary artery disease, obesity, hypertension, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and inactivity.

Signs and Symptoms of CHF

Include fatigue, orthopnea, edema, cyanosis, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea.

Surgical interventions for CHF

May include CABG, valve replacement, and heart transplantation.

Management goals for CHF

Aim to decrease disease progression and improve cardiac output and quality of life.

Prognosis for CHF

Generally poor, with many patients having a life expectancy of less than 5 years without advanced treatment.