Cardiology Concepts Quiz

Cardiovascular System

• Valsalva’s maneuver involves forced exhalation against a closed glottis and can affect blood pressure.
• Vital organ perfusion is compromised when mean arterial pressure drops below 60 mm Hg and systolic blood pressure falls below 80 mm Hg.
• Lidocaine is the preferred medication for managing premature ventricular contractions.
• The highest risk of mortality after a myocardial infarction occurs within the first 24 to 48 hours.
• The left ventricle typically bears the most damage during a myocardial infarction, leading to myocardial ischemia and associated pain.
• For cardiac arrest, establishing an airway is the priority.
• Signs of choking include clutching at the throat.

Heart Failure & Care Interventions

• Interventions for heart failure and cardiogenic pulmonary edema include decreasing venous return and enhancing left ventricular output.
• Positioning patients in high Fowler’s, administering oxygen, diuretics, and positive inotropes are key nursing actions.

Respiratory System

• A positive tuberculin skin test indicates induration of 10 mm or greater, indicative of possible tuberculosis exposure.
• Histoplasmosis symptoms can mimic tuberculosis.
• In burn victims, respiratory compromise is the leading cause of death, followed by infection.

Gastrointestinal System

• The pancreas's exocrine function is vital for digesting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
• Hepatitis A patients should focus on a diet high in carbs and proteins, with moderate fats, having the largest meal in the morning.
• Indications for esophageal balloon tamponade include ensuring inflation does not exceed 20 mm Hg.
• Hemodialysis utilizes heparin in the dialysate to prevent clotting.

General Medical Concepts

• Hip fractures are the most common in the elderly due to osteoporosis.
• Before angiography, confirm allergies to dye, shellfish, or iodine, and initiate NPO status for eight hours.
• Myelography involves removing cerebrospinal fluid and injecting contrast.

Dialysis and Fluids

• After hemodialysis, the puncture site requires a pressure dressing and immobilization for eight hours to reduce bleeding risks.
• Water-based media in myelography necessitates 6-8 hours of bed rest with the head elevated; oil-based media require the patient to remain flat for 6-24 hours.

Urology

• Overflow incontinence reflects bladder distention and may show voiding patterns.
• Early signs of a pressure ulcer include reddened skin that blanches upon pressure.

Neurological Indicators

• Classic symptoms of sickle cell anemia include tachycardia, fatigue, and organ enlargement.
• Mechanical ventilators are indicated when a patient cannot maintain safe oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

Pain Management and Treatment Strategies

• Angina pectoris presents as a transient substernal pain, often radiating and related to myocardial ischemia.
• The use of nitroglycerin helps reduce heart workload and prevents myocardial infarction.
• Following a myocardial infarction, patients should gradually progress physical activities while avoiding overexertion.

Surgical and Postoperative Care

• Mastectomy patients may experience lymphedema, leading to heaviness in the arm.
• Post-corneal transplant includes precautions to avoid trauma to the operative site.

Nutrition and Dietary Recommendations

• Low-residue diets are recommended post-colostomy for a period of 4-6 weeks.
• Patients with cardiac glycosides like digoxin should consume high-potassium foods for balance.

Other Medical Conditions

• Fat embolism is a serious complication post-bone fracture and manifests as fever and tachypnea.
• The first symptom of pancreatitis is typically persistent upper abdominal pain.
• Cholelithiasis incidence is elevated in women who have been pregnant.
• Acetaminophen overdose poses severe risks for liver damage.

Surgical Precautions

• Ensure the airway is secure before moving trauma victims.
• In coronary care, patients should avoid activities that may induce chest pain or dyspnea for optimal recovery.

Test your understanding of key cardiology concepts such as Valsalva's maneuver, myocardial infarction, and the use of Lidocaine. This quiz covers critical aspects of cardiovascular health and the management of heart conditions. Hone your knowledge with a range of questions focused on vital signs and drug interventions.