Cardiac Topics and Therapies Quiz

Peripheral Arterial Disease

• Affects blood flow in arteries, typically in the legs, due to narrowed or blocked arteries.
• Symptoms include leg pain, cramping, and numbness, especially during physical activity.

Right and Left Heart Failure

• Right Heart Failure: Can lead to fluid buildup in the legs, abdomen, and liver.
• Left Heart Failure: Causes respiratory difficulties due to fluid in the lungs and may result in fatigue.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

• A condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs.
• Risk factors include prolonged immobility, recent surgery, and certain medical conditions.

Coumadin Therapy - Diagnostic Testing

• Warfarin (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant medication; requires regular monitoring of INR (International Normalized Ratio) to ensure proper blood thinning.
• Essential for preventing thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation or history of DVT.

Heparin Therapy

• Anticoagulant used to prevent and treat DVT and pulmonary embolism.
• Administered intravenously or subcutaneously; requires monitoring of aPTT (activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) for efficacy.

DASH Diet

• Dietary approach to stop hypertension; focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Aims to reduce sodium intake and promote heart health.

Pulse Site and Assessments

• Essential for evaluating circulatory health; common sites include radial, brachial, and femoral arteries.
• Assessment includes checking pulse rhythm, strength, and rate.

Intermittent Claudication

• Pain and cramping in the legs triggered by exercise due to inadequate blood flow.
• Often associated with peripheral arterial disease.

Stable Angina

• Chest pain or discomfort due to coronary artery disease, typically triggered by physical exertion or stress.
• Usually resolves with rest or nitroglycerin.

Modifiable/Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

• Modifiable: Lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and managing hypertension and diabetes.
• Non-Modifiable: Genetics, age, gender, and family history related to cardiovascular disease.