Recording-2025-03-11T15:22:00.961Z

Introduction to Cardiac Defects

• Discussing structural cardiac defects and risks associated

• Importance of understanding congenital heart defects during pregnancy

Risk Factors for Cardiac Defects

• Age of Mother: Highest risk between ages 35 and up.

• Younger Age Fertility: Fertile age (18-20) has risk due to high chance of pregnancy.

Understanding the Menstrual Cycle

• Normal cycle duration: Approximately 28 days.

• Ovulation: Occurs around day 14.

• Variable Cycle Lengths: Not every woman has a 28-day cycle; cycles can vary from 25 to 32 days.

Ovulation and Fertilization

• Egg Fertilization Window: Egg is viable for 24-36 hours post-ovulation.

• Sperm Viability: Sperm can last up to 48 hours.

• Pregnancy and Testing: Delayed menstruation might lead to pregnancy testing, often resulting in panic.

Importance of Early Pregnancy Awareness

• Use case of young women engaging in risky behavior (e.g., drinking, drugs) without knowing pregnancy timelines.

• Early fetal development (especially heart development by 6 weeks) can be affected by maternal health practices.

Structural Abnormalities in Fetal Development

• Foramen Ovale and Ductus Arteriosus: Key structures in fetal circulation, needing to remain open or close appropriately after birth.

• Prostaglandin use to keep ductus arteriosus open in newborns with certain structural heart defects.

• Maternal Health Influence: Stressful environments, substance abuse, and maternal conditions can significantly affect fetal heart development.

Key Cardiac Structures and Their Importance

• Understanding heart anatomy:

  • Atria and Ventricles: Right atrium, left atrium, right ventricle, left ventricle.

  • Major Vessels: Superior vena cava, inferior vena cava, aorta, pulmonary trunk.

Congenital Heart Defects Overview

1. Atrial Septal Defect (ASD):

   • Septal hole between atria, leading to inefficient blood flow but often manageable.

2. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD):

   • More severe shunting between ventricles, can require surgery.

3. Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA):

   • Failure of ductus arteriosus to close post-birth.

Tetralogy of Fallot

• Comprises four defects:

  1. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

  2. Pulmonary Stenosis

  3. Overriding Aorta

  4. Right Ventricular Hypertrophy

• Consequences and management including the need for surgery and potential ongoing issues.

Pulmonary Stenosis and Hypertrophy

• Elevated pressures lead to right ventricular hypertrophy and potential continuous need for medical management.

Coarctation of the Aorta

• A narrowing in the aorta leading to differences in blood pressure between upper and lower body regions.

Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

• Congenital condition requiring multiple surgeries to manage; often leads to transplant needs in childhood.

Transposition of the Great Vessels

• Arteries are swapped; requires surgical intervention for survival.

Importance of Early Cardiac Assessment

• Screening for congenital defects within 24-48 hours post-birth is standard care in many settings.

• Recognizing the impact of untreated congenital defects on long-term health.

Non-Congenital Heart Issues

• Importance of monitoring conditions like rheumatic fever and endocarditis, which can lead to significant heart issues later in life.

• Understanding the backdrop of cardiac health can stem from historical conditions.

Cardiac Assessment Skills for Nursing

• Emphasizing proper assessment techniques when listening to heart sounds and utilizing knowledge of heart anatomy.

• Understanding of common valvular disorders and expected findings in assessments.

Conclusion

• Importance of continuous education and awareness in cardiac health issues and their impact on patient care, stressing a deeper understanding of both cardiac anatomy and functional implications.

• Encouragement to retain clinical skills and knowledge for future assessments and patient interactions.