Chapter 12 - Cardiovascular System

What is perfusion?

The process of delivering oxygenated blood to tissues, which is necessary for their function.

What is the function of the cardiovascular system?

Transports oxygen, nutrients, and other substances to body tissues, and carries metabolic waste products to kidneys and lungs.

What chambers does the heart consist of?

The heart has four chambers: two atria and two ventricles.

What is the purpose of the pericardial fluid?

To reduce friction as the myocardium contracts and relaxes.

What are the great vessels associated with the heart?

The aorta and pulmonary arteries.

What happens during diastole?

The ventricles relax and fill with blood from the atria, with the AV valves opening to allow blood flow.

How is ventricular contraction triggered?

By electrical impulses originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node.

What conditions can cause orthostatic hypotension?

A decrease in SBP more than 20 mm Hg when standing up, often due to antihypertensive medications.

What is the normal heart rate range?

60 to 100 beats per minute.

What does an S3 heart sound indicate?

An extra sound heard after S2, which may be normal in children and young adults.

What are murmurs?

Sounds like 'swooshing' heard during the heart cycle that may indicate abnormal blood flow.

What is acute coronary syndrome?

A spectrum that ranges from unstable angina to myocardial infarction caused by prolonged ischemia.

What are the clinical findings of myocardial infarction?

Worst chest pain ever experienced, often radiating to other areas and not relieved by rest or nitroglycerin.

What are signs of heart failure?

Fatigue, shortness of breath, orthopnea, and crackles in the lungs due to fluid overload.

What is effective endocarditis?

An infection of the endothelial layer of the heart that can occur with damage from turbulent blood flow.

What physical findings can be associated with pericarditis?

Pericardial friction rub and sharp chest pain aggravated by deep breathing.

What does a pulse deficit indicate?

A difference between apical pulse and peripheral pulse rates, often seen in dysrhythmias.

How does the lymphatic system work with the peripheral vascular system?

It removes excess fluid from interstitial spaces and carries it to lymph nodes.

What is the importance of assessing jugular vein pulsations?

It provides information about right atrial pressure.

How do you assess capillary refill?

By squeezing the pads of the fingers until they blanch, then counting the seconds until color returns.

What is the role of hemoglobin in the blood?

To carry oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and transport carbon dioxide back to the lungs.

What is blood pressure?

The force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels.

What are the two types of blood circulation?

Systemic circulation and pulmonary circulation.

What is systemic circulation?

The flow of oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

What is pulmonary circulation?

The flow of deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs.

What is the cardiac cycle?

The sequence of events that occur in one complete heartbeat.

What does an ECG measure?

The electrical activity of the heart over time.

What is the significance of the sinoatrial (SA) node?

It acts as the heart's natural pacemaker, initiating the electrical impulses that set the rhythm of heartbeats.

What is stroke volume?

The amount of blood pumped by the heart with each beat.

What are risk factors for heart disease?

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and physical inactivity.

What is atherosclerosis?

The buildup of plaque in the arterial walls that can restrict blood flow.

What is myocardial ischemia?

A condition where blood flow to the heart is reduced, preventing it from receiving enough oxygen.

What are the symptoms of heart failure?

Shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet.

What is the primary function of the coronary arteries?

To supply blood to the heart muscle itself.

How can you manage hypertension?

Through lifestyle changes and medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

What is arrhythmia?

An irregular heartbeat that can disrupt normal blood flow.

What is the purpose of stress testing?

To evaluate the heart's performance under physical stress.

What are common signs of stroke?

Sudden numbness, confusion, difficulty speaking, and severe headache.

What is the function of platelets in the blood?

To aid in blood clotting and prevent excessive bleeding.

What does cholesterol do in the body?

It is used to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods.

What is the impact of smoking on cardiovascular health?

It increases the risk of heart disease and stroke by damaging blood vessels.

What is the function of the heart valves?

To ensure blood flows in one direction through the heart chambers.

What is angina?

Chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.

What is cardiac output?

The volume of blood the heart pumps per minute.

What role does the autonomic nervous system play in heart function?

It regulates heart rate and blood pressure through sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways.

What is heart murmur?

An abnormal sound caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart.

How does exercise affect the cardiovascular system?

It strengthens the heart muscle, improves circulation, and lowers blood pressure.

What is the first sign of heart disease in many individuals?

Chest pain or discomfort during physical activity.

What lifestyle changes can improve heart health?

Eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco.

What is congestive heart failure?

A condition where the heart is unable to pump efficiently, leading to fluid buildup.

What is LDL cholesterol?

Low-density lipoprotein, known as 'bad' cholesterol that can lead to plaque buildup in arteries.

How can diet impact heart health?

A heart-healthy diet can lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and reduce risks of heart disease.

What indicates a myocardial infarction?

Severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and potentially nausea or cold sweats.

How can hydration affect heart health?

Proper hydration helps maintain blood volume and circulation, which is crucial for heart health.

What is a cardiac catheterization?

A procedure used to diagnose and treat some heart conditions by inserting a catheter into the heart.

What is the effect of diabetes on the cardiovascular system?

It increases the risk of cardiovascular disease due to damaged blood vessels.

What is the significance of monitoring body mass index (BMI)?

It helps assess obesity levels that can lead to cardiovascular issues.

What are the benefits of regular physical activity on the heart?

Improved heart function, lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels.

What does the term 'heart-healthy diet' typically include?

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

What is hypertension often called?

The 'silent killer' due to its asymptomatic nature.

What is the primary cause of heart attacks?

Coronary artery disease due to plaque buildup leading to blocked blood flow.

What does a heart-healthy lifestyle entail?

Healthy eating, regular exercise, weight management, and avoiding smoking.

What is ventricular tachycardia?

A fast, abnormal heart rate originating from the ventricles.

What are the common diagnostic tests for heart disease?

ECG, echocardiogram, stress test, and blood tests.

What is cardiac rehab?

A structured program designed to improve the health and well-being of individuals with heart problems.

What are the symptoms of venous insufficiency?

Swelling, pain, and changes in skin color in the legs.

What factors contribute to poor peripheral circulation?

Diabetes, smoking, and atherosclerosis.

What are potential complications of untreated high blood pressure?

Heart disease, stroke, kidneys failure, and vision loss.