Cardiovascular pharmacology

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Questions and Answers

What are the four chambers of the heart?

  • Upper and lower atria, left and right ventricles
  • Left and right atria, left and right ventricles (correct)
  • Left and right auricles, left and right ventricles
  • Left and right atria, left and right auricles

Which blood vessel carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs?

  • Systemic vein
  • Pulmonary artery (correct)
  • Pulmonary vein
  • Aorta

Oxygenated blood from the lungs returns to the heart via which blood vessel?

  • Pulmonary vein (correct)
  • Systemic artery
  • Pulmonary artery
  • Aorta

What is the primary role of the cardiovascular system in relation to nutrients and waste?

<p>To deliver nutrients to cells and remove waste products. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Myocardial infarction (MI) is primarily caused by:

<p>Impeded blood flow to the heart muscle. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a significant reduction of oxygen supply to the heart muscle?

<p>Hypoxia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a classic sign of myocardial infarction (MI)?

<p>Bluish tint to the skin (cyanosis) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides cardiovascular issues, chest pain can also be caused by:

<p>Gastrointestinal disorders. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Blood pressure (BP) is mathematically defined as the product of which two physiological variables?

<p>Cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consequence of elevated peripheral vascular resistance (PVR) on cardiac function?

<p>Increased workload on the heart (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the physiological effect of a medication that reduces preload?

<p>Improves contractility of the heart (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which physiological condition is NOT identified as a potential cause of hypertension?

<p>Hyperglycemia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Chronic hypertension can significantly impair the function of which organ system in removing excess fluid from the body?

<p>Kidneys (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors primarily reduce blood pressure by targeting which physiological pathway?

<p>Renin-angiotensin system (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of chemoreceptors in blood pressure regulation?

<p>Detecting oxygen, carbon dioxide levels, and pH in the blood (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the renin-angiotensin system contribute to an increase in blood pressure?

<p>By causing constriction of the blood vessels (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) lower blood pressure through a mechanism most similar to which other class of antihypertensive medications?

<p>ACE inhibitors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Beta-adrenergic blockers primarily reduce blood pressure by counteracting which physiological response?

<p>Fight-or-flight stress response (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which mechanism of action is characteristic of diuretic medications in lowering blood pressure?

<p>Reducing blood volume (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Thiazide diuretics primarily exert their diuretic effect at which location in the nephron?

<p>Distal tubule (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Potassium-sparing diuretics are distinguished from thiazide and loop diuretics by their ability to minimize the excretion of which crucial electrolyte?

<p>Potassium (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Loop diuretics are considered the most potent class of diuretics due to their site of action in which part of the nephron?

<p>Loop of Henle (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is potassium supplementation often prescribed in conjunction with thiazide and loop diuretics?

<p>To counteract potential potassium depletion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical location for deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

<p>Lower extremities (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for DVT?

<p>Vigorous exercise (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides anticoagulants, what other intervention may physicians prescribe to prevent DVT?

<p>Tight stockings (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why must patients taking anticoagulants have their blood monitored?

<p>To maintain the desired clotting ability (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What risk do patients on anticoagulants face if they experience a break in the skin?

<p>Profuse bleeding (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of antiplatelet medications?

<p>Prevent platelet clumping (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which over-the-counter medication is potent in interfering with clotting?

<p>Aspirin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is aspirin's role in heart attack management?

<p>Aids in survival and prevention (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What dietary advice should be given to patients on anticoagulants?

<p>Reduce intake of green leafy vegetables (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these signs might indicate abnormal bleeding in a patient on anticoagulants?

<p>Black, tarry stool (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are two other types of antiplatelet medications aside from Aspirin?

<p>ADP receptor blockers and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do ADP receptor blockers work?

<p>They interfere with the platelet plasma membrane (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When are glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors typically administered?

<p>Before cardiac procedures (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are geriatric patients more vulnerable to bleeding complications?

<p>Fragile skin and frequent anticoagulant use (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a thrombus?

<p>A clot in a blood vessel (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are some common atypical symptoms of heart attacks in women?

<p>Upper back or shoulder pain, lightheadedness, and unusual fatigue (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of a stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA)?

<p>Deprivation of oxygen and blood flow to the brain (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying cause of both myocardial infarctions (MIs) and CVAs?

<p>Ischemia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is used to increase heart rate?

<p>Atropine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of administering a diuretic like furosemide (Lasix) to a patient with heart problems?

<p>To decrease fluid buildup and reduce the heart's workload (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which antianginal drugs relieve chest pain?

<p>Dilating arteries and veins (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should a patient typically administer sublingual nitroglycerin for angina?

<p>Place the tablet or spray under the tongue and repeat every 5 minutes up to three times (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a transdermal nitroglycerin patch?

<p>To prevent angina pectoris (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of medication might be effective for chest pain caused by skeletal muscle problems rather than heart issues?

<p>NSAIDs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of anticoagulant medications?

<p>Preventing blood from clotting (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does warfarin (Coumadin) prevent blood clotting?

<p>By interrupting the production of clotting cofactors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which anticoagulant medication is administered via subcutaneous injection?

<p>Heparin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do heparin and enoxaparin (Lovenox) work to prevent blood clots?

<p>By blocking the action of cofactors involved in clotting (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of the medical term "hyperlipidemia"?

<p>Excessive amounts of lipids in the blood (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term "cardiomyopathy" refer to?

<p>Disease or weakening of the heart muscle (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common side effect of diuretics in heart failure patients?

<p>Frequent urination (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do calcium channel blockers affect blood pressure?

<p>They reduce peripheral vascular resistance. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is NOT typically used to treat hypertension?

<p>Digoxin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary cause of congestive heart failure (CHF)?

<p>Chronic high blood pressure (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a typical symptom of CHF?

<p>Bradycardia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides medication, what lifestyle change can help manage CHF symptoms?

<p>Smoking cessation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do vasodilators impact the heart?

<p>They decrease the workload on the heart. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary effect of cardiac glycosides on the heart?

<p>They slow the heart rate and strengthen contractions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is combining cardiac glycosides with other drugs that relax peripheral vessels beneficial?

<p>It makes the cardiovascular system more efficient. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which plant is a source of digoxin?

<p>Foxglove (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a sign of digoxin toxicity?

<p>Greenish halo around lights (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential cause of dysrhythmias?

<p>Myocardial infarction (MI) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which class of drugs helps decrease the pressure the heart has to exert to pump blood?

<p>Vasodilators (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of calcium in blood pressure regulation?

<p>It allows muscles and blood vessels to contract. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a non-pharmacological method for lowering blood pressure?

<p>Increasing sodium intake (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of Richard's antiembolic stockings and medication therapy following his pulmonary embolism?

<p>To prevent the formation of new blood clots and the enlargement of existing ones. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key benefit of administering tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) within 60 minutes of CVA symptom onset?

<p>It minimizes the effects of the stroke. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the principal risk associated with thrombolytic therapy?

<p>Intracranial and/or systemic hemorrhage and angioedema. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition are thrombolytics NOT suitable to clear blocked IV catheters or cannulas?

<p>When the blood has been in the cannula for an extended period. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the three most common tests used to monitor anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or thrombolytic therapy?

<p>Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and international normalized ratio (INR). (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which blood test is primarily used to evaluate the effectiveness of heparin therapy?

<p>Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of antifibrinolytic medications?

<p>To help form clots when a patient is hemorrhaging. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are antifibrinolytic medications sometimes used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding?

<p>To decrease the amount of blood lost. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action of antifibrinolytic medications?

<p>They prevent the destruction of fibrin, allowing clot formation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication acts as an antidote for anticoagulant overdose?

<p>Vitamin K. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the specific use of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) in bleeding disorders?

<p>To raise levels of factor VIII and von Willebrand factor. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of hematopoietic stimulant medications?

<p>To stimulate the growth of blood cells. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific type of anemia does ferrous sulfate treat?

<p>Iron-deficiency anemia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is injectable vitamin B12 usually administered to patients with pernicious anemia?

<p>Because they cannot absorb vitamin B12 in the GI tract. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What three factors interact to create blood pressure?

<p>Cardiac output, peripheral resistance, and blood volume. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Before taking digoxin, a patient's pulse should be checked. If the pulse is below what rate should the medication be withheld and the prescriber contacted?

<p>60 bpm (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which substances can decrease digoxin levels in the body and should be avoided?

<p>Bulk laxatives and antacids containing aluminum (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended duration for checking a patient's pulse to accurately assess for dysrhythmias?

<p>1 full minute (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do Class I antiarrhythmics (sodium channel blockers) work?

<p>They slow sodium transfer. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key role of potassium in the body, specifically relevant to cardiac function?

<p>Contraction of cardiac muscle (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which class of antiarrhythmics is often prescribed to patients with internal defibrillators who are at high risk for sudden cardiac arrest?

<p>Potassium channel blockers (Class III) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might a patient taking diuretics need potassium supplements?

<p>Diuretics can deplete potassium levels. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary effect of calcium channel blockers in treating arrhythmias?

<p>They decrease the workload of the heart. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Barbara is experiencing heart arrhythmias after starting a diuretic. What is the likely connection?

<p>The diuretic is causing potassium depletion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary target of treatment for shock?

<p>Addressing the underlying cause (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a typical sign or symptom of shock?

<p>Warm, flushed skin (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of drug is dobutamine (Dobutrex), used in shock treatment?

<p>Inotropic drug (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary treatment for anaphylactic shock?

<p>Epinephrine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using plasma expanders like albumin human (Albutein) in hypovolemic shock?

<p>Increase blood volume (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying cause of septic shock?

<p>Microorganism invasion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which class of medications is contraindicated in patients with severe anemia, glaucoma, or intracranial pressure?

<p>Nitrates (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of uncontrolled bleeding should avoid which medication class?

<p>Anticoagulants (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which class of drugs is used to dissolve blood clots in patients experiencing stroke symptoms or clotted central venous devices?

<p>Thrombolytics (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication class can cause stained teeth as a side effect?

<p>Hematopoietics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which side effect is common to both bile acid sequestrants and fibric acid derivatives?

<p>Gastrointestinal issues (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient is taking warfarin, which medication should be avoided due to a potential interaction?

<p>ACE Inhibitors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential interaction between ACE inhibitors and diuretics?

<p>Increased lithium levels (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which drug class is used to treat bleeding caused by conditions like aplastic anemia and cirrhosis of the liver?

<p>Antifibrinolytics (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity, severe aortic or pulmonic valvular disease?

<p>Phosphodiesterase inhibitors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication class is used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and can cause gallstones with prolonged use?

<p>Fibric acid derivatives (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which drug is used for life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias but can have pulmonary toxicity as a side effect?

<p>Potassium channel blockers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which class of medications is used to treat angina, hypertension, and cardiac arrhythmias, but should be used cautiously in patients with diabetes mellitus?

<p>Beta-adrenergic blockers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding, recent intracranial or intraspinal surgery, or intracranial neoplasm?

<p>Thrombolytics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which drug class is used to treat anemia but should be used cautiously in primary hemochromatosis and hemosiderosis conditions?

<p>Hematopoietics (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which drug class is used to treat hypertension and can cause dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, and palpitations as side effects?

<p>Angiotensin receptor blockers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of lipoprotein is considered the most harmful due to its ability to lodge within blood vessel walls?

<p>Very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism of action of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins)?

<p>Promoting the liver to produce less cholesterol and increase LDL receptors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is prescribed to decrease lipid levels specifically by increasing the liver's production of bile acids from cholesterol?

<p>Cholestyramine (Questran) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of fibric acid derivatives in managing lipidemia?

<p>Reducing triglyceride levels primarily by inhibiting VLDL production (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is routine liver function testing necessary for patients taking lipid-lowering medications?

<p>To detect early signs of potential liver damage related to medication use (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If lifestyle changes and statin therapy are insufficient to lower a patient's very high cholesterol, which class of medication might be added?

<p>Bile acid sequestrants (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Despite being prescribed Lipitor, why should Henry still consider lifestyle changes?

<p>Lifestyle changes can enhance Lipitor's effects and address other cardiovascular risks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do HDLs play in managing hyperlipidemia?

<p>Remove cholesterol from the blood vessels (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can nonpharmacological approaches, like those in Fast Tip 16.4, contribute to managing lipidemia?

<p>They can complement medication and promote overall cardiovascular health. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What underlying factor can contribute to elevated lipid levels, regardless of lifestyle choices?

<p>Genetic predisposition (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary target of bile acid sequestrants in treating lipidemia?

<p>LDLs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which cardiovascular issue can be exacerbated by hypertension if left untreated?

<p>Congestive heart failure (CHF) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern related to 'plugged vessels' as mentioned in the text?

<p>Atherosclerosis, hypertension, and CHF (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does hyperlipidemia contribute to cardiovascular problems?

<p>By depositing excess fat in blood vessels, leading to blockages (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is patient education important when prescribing medications for cardiovascular disorders?

<p>These medications are often potent and require careful monitoring for side effects. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Cardiovascular System

The system consisting of the heart and blood vessels that circulates blood throughout the body.

Heart Chambers

The four compartments of the heart: left atrium, right atrium, left ventricle, and right ventricle.

Pulmonary Circulation

The path of blood from the heart to the lungs and back to the heart for oxygenation.

Aorta

The largest artery in the body that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

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Myocardial Infarction (MI)

Commonly known as a heart attack, where blood flow to the heart is blocked, leading to tissue damage.

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Anoxia

A total lack of oxygen in the body's tissues, potentially leading to serious damage.

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Hypoxia

A significant reduction of oxygen levels in the body but not complete lack.

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Signs of MI

Classic symptoms include chest pain, sweating, pale skin, and cyanosis around the mouth.

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Atypical Symptoms in Women

Women may experience shoulder pain, lightheadedness, and unusual fatigue during heart attacks.

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Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)

A stroke occurring from the brain being deprived of oxygen and blood flow.

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Cardiovascular Medications

Drugs that regulate heart rate, improve efficiency, and reduce irritability.

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Angina Pectoris

Chest pain due to lack of oxygen and nutrients in the heart tissue.

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Antianginal Medications

Drugs that relieve angina by dilating blood vessels.

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Nitroglycerin Administration

Given sublingually or as a patch to relieve angina pain.

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Diuretics

Medications that reduce fluid return to the heart to lessen its workload.

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Anticoagulants

Medications that prevent clotting by disrupting the clotting process.

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Examples of Anticoagulants

Warfarin, heparin, and enoxaparin are medications that prevent blood clot formation.

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Antiplatelet Medications

Drugs that stop platelets from clumping to form clots.

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Thrombolytic Medications

Drugs that dissolve formed blood clots during a stroke or heart attack.

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Nonpharmacological Angina Treatment

Strategies include diet changes, stress coping, and lifestyle modifications.

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Cardiomyopathy

A disease or weakening of heart muscle affecting its function.

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Thrombosis

An abnormal condition where a blood clot develops in a vessel.

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Antiembolic Stockings

Compression stockings used to prevent blood clots in veins.

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Pulmonary Embolism

A blockage in a lung artery caused by blood clots.

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Tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA)

A medication used to dissolve blood clots in strokes.

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Thrombolytics

Drugs used to dissolve blood clots.

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Prothrombin Time (PT)

A test to measure the time it takes for blood to clot.

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Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT)

A test used to monitor heparin therapy effectiveness.

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International Normalized Ratio (INR)

A blood test to monitor patients on Coumadin.

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Antifibrinolytics

Medications that promote clot formation in bleedings.

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Vitamin K

A vitamin essential for blood clotting factor production.

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Cyanocobalamin

Vitamin B12 supplement given for deficiency in anemia.

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Hematopoietic Stimulants

Medications that stimulate blood cell production.

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Cardiac Output (CO)

The amount of blood the heart pumps per minute.

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Peripheral Resistance

The resistance to blood flow in the circulatory system.

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Blood Pressure (BP)

The force exerted by circulating blood on blood vessel walls.

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DVT

Deep vein thrombosis; the formation of a clot in a deep vein, usually in the legs.

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Risk factors for DVT

Factors that increase DVT risk include bedrest, obesity, surgery, and fractures.

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Monitoring anticoagulants

Patients on anticoagulants need regular blood checks to ensure correct clotting levels.

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Aspirin

An over-the-counter medication used for pain relief and reducing clot risk, particularly in heart attack prevention.

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ADP receptor blockers

A type of antiplatelet medication that prevents platelets from clumping to form clots.

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Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors

Antiplatelet drugs that prevent platelet aggregation, useful during cardiac procedures.

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Reye’s syndrome

A serious condition linked to aspirin in children after viral infections; aspirin is not given to those under 18 in these cases.

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Thrombus vs. Embolus

A thrombus is a clot that forms in one place; an embolus is a clot that travels to another area.

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Signs of abnormal bleeding

Indicators include frequent bruising, bleeding gums, and black tarry stools, significant for patients on anticoagulants.

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Precautions for anticoagulant patients

Patients should avoid injuries, monitor diet for vitamin K, and use electric razors to prevent cuts.

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Stroke due to embolism

A blood clot blocking blood flow to the brain, leading to neurological damage.

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Patient teaching about anticoagulants

Educating patients on risks, monitoring signs of bleeding, and dietary considerations to ensure safety.

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Peripheral Vascular Resistance (PVR)

The resistance that blood vessels offer against blood flow.

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Preload

The initial stretching of the heart muscle prior to contraction, closely related to volume of blood filling the heart.

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Afterload

The pressure the heart must work against to eject blood during contraction.

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Antihypertensives

Medications that lower high blood pressure, helping to manage hypertension.

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Hypertension

A chronic condition where blood pressure is consistently too high.

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ACE Inhibitors

A class of medications that lower blood pressure by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin system.

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Angiotensin II

A hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict, increasing blood pressure.

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Thiazide Diuretics

A classification of diuretics that reduce sodium and chloride reabsorption in the kidneys.

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Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Diuretics that prevent potassium loss while promoting fluid excretion.

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Loop Diuretics

A potent class of diuretics acting on the loop of Henle in kidneys to inhibit reabsorption.

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Baroreceptors

Sensors in blood vessels that detect changes in blood pressure.

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Chemoreceptors

Sensory receptors that respond to chemical changes in blood, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

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Calcium Channel Blockers

Drugs that prevent calcium from entering heart muscles and blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and heart workload.

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Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

A condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood, leading to fluid build-up and strain.

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Vasodilators

Medications that widen blood vessels to decrease heart pressure and oxygen demand.

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Cardiac Glycosides

Drugs that strengthen heart contractions and improve efficiency during heart failure.

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ARBs (Angiotensin Receptor Blockers)

Drugs blocking the effects of angiotensin, helping to lower blood pressure.

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Beta Blockers

Heart medications that reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure by blocking adrenaline effects.

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Symptoms of CHF

Signs include anxiety, tachycardia, cyanosis, and fluid retention indicating heart failure.

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Fluid Retention

The body's response to heart failure, causing a buildup of fluid due to reduced kidney blood flow.

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Effects of Stress on Hypertension

Stress can increase blood pressure by triggering the fight-or-flight response, impacting heart health.

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Symptoms of Digoxin Toxicity

Signs of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, slow heart rate, and visual disturbances like seeing halos.

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Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors

A type of vasodilator that enhances heart contraction strength by blocking an enzyme.

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Hypertension Treatment Methods

Non-medication strategies include weight loss, reducing salt, tobacco cessation, and exercise to lower blood pressure.

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Potassium and Dysrhythmias

Imbalances in potassium levels can lead to heart rhythm irregularities and impact cardiac function.

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Checking Pulse

Assessing heart rate before taking medication; do not take if below 60 bpm.

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Dysrhythmia detection

Accurately check pulse for 1 minute to identify irregular heartbeats.

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Sodium Channel Blockers

Class I antiarrhythmics that slow electrical conduction in the heart.

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Beta-adrenergic Blockers

Class II antiarrhythmics that slow heart conduction and reduce oxygen demand.

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Potassium Channel Blockers

Class III antiarrhythmics that help treat both ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias.

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Shock

Collapse of cardiovascular system due to various origins like cardiogenic or hypovolemic.

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Signs of Shock

Cold skin, low blood pressure, rapid thready pulse, mental confusion.

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Vasopressors

IV medications like epinephrine that increase blood pressure during shock.

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Inotropic Drugs

Medications like dobutamine that strengthen heart contractions.

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Septic Shock

Shock caused by infection leading to systemic inflammatory response.

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Anaphylactic Shock

Severe allergic reaction causing breathing difficulty and decreased cardiac output.

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Electrolyte Imbalance

Disruption in the levels of essential minerals, affecting cardiac function.

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Diuretics and Arrhythmias

Diuretics can lead to electrolyte loss, causing heart arrhythmias.

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Medication Safety

Avoid certain laxatives and antacids that can lower digoxin levels.

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Hyperlipidemia

An excess of lipids in the blood, often leading to health issues.

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Atherosclerosis

A condition where blood vessels are narrowed due to fatty deposits.

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High-Density Lipoproteins (HDLs)

Good cholesterol that helps remove fats from blood vessels.

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Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDLs)

Bad cholesterol that deposits fat in blood vessels.

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Very-Low-Density Lipoproteins (VLDLs)

The worst fats, they can wedge into blood vessel walls.

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Statins

Medications that lower cholesterol by increasing liver LDL receptors.

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Bile Acid Sequestrants

Medications that lower LDL by binding bile acids, reducing cholesterol.

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Fibric Acid Derivatives

Drugs used primarily to lower triglycerides and remove them from blood.

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Antiarrhythmics

Medications that help restore normal heart rhythm.

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Nitrates

Medications used to relieve angina by relaxing blood vessels.

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Indications for Nitrates

Primarily used for treating angina.

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Antiplatelet Agents

Drugs that prevent platelets from clumping to form clots, particularly after heart issues.

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HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors

Medications lowering cholesterol by inhibiting its production in the liver.

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Inotropic Agents

Medications that increase heart contractility and output.

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Study Notes

Cardiovascular System Overview

  • The cardiovascular system comprises the heart and blood vessels.
  • The heart has four chambers: two atria and two ventricles.
  • The heart rhythmically pumps blood, sending it to the lungs for oxygenation and then to the body.
  • This cycle of oxygenation and circulation is continuous.
  • The system delivers crucial nutrients (oxygen, hormones, clotting factors) and removes waste products (carbon dioxide).

Cardiovascular Disorders and Symptoms

  • Myocardial infarction (MI, heart attack) occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is hindered.
    • Symptoms include chest pain, sweating, pale skin, and cyanosis.
    • Non-cardiovascular conditions can also cause chest pain.
  • Stroke (cerebrovascular accident, CVA) arises from oxygen deprivation to the brain.
    • It's a leading cause of death and disability.
  • Clots can obstruct blood flow in various parts of the body, causing damage to vital organs.

Medications for Cardiovascular Conditions

  • Antianginal Medications*

  • Treat angina pectoris, chest pain due to insufficient oxygen to heart tissue.

  • Nitroglycerin is a common example, administered sublingually for acute episodes and through transdermal patches for prevention.

    • NSAIDs can relieve skeletal muscle-related chest pain, but heart issues should be ruled out.
  • Anticoagulants, Antiplatelet, and Thrombolytics*

  • Anticoagulants prevent blood clotting by affecting clotting factors (e.g., warfarin, heparin).

  • Antiplatelet medications prevent platelet aggregation (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel).

  • Thrombolytics dissolve existing clots (e.g., tPA).

    • Bleeding risk is a significant concern with these agents.
  • Antifibrinolytics*

  • Treat excessive bleeding by promoting clot formation.

    • Examples include aminocaproic acid and tranexamic acid.
  • Hematopoietic Stimulants*

  • Increase blood cell production to treat various anemias and low blood iron.

  • Antihypertensives*

  • Lower blood pressure through different mechanisms, including ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, and calcium channel blockers.

    • Hypertension is linked to stress, unhealthy lifestyles, and other medical conditions.
    • Lifestyle changes like weight loss, reduced salt intake, and exercise can complement medication.
  • Medications for Heart Failure*

  • Treat symptoms of weakened heart muscle.

    • Vasodilators decrease pressure on the heart.
    • Cardiac glycosides increase heart contraction strength.
    • Other drugs (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, beta-blockers) help the heart function more efficiently
  • Medications for Abnormal Heart Rhythms (Dysrhythmias)*

  • Treat irregular heartbeats.

  • Medications for Shock*

  • Address the underlying causes and support the cardiovascular system.

    • Vasopressors and inotropic drugs are crucial in stabilizing blood pressure and heart function.
    • Anaphylactic shock is treated with epinephrine.
  • Lipid-Lowering Medications*

  • For high lipid levels.

  • Statins, bile acid sequestrants, and fibric acid derivatives are examples.

Patient Advice

  • Patients taking these medications must be aware of potential side effects and monitor for abnormal bleeding, pulse changes, etc.
  • Non-pharmacological interventions (e.g., diet, lifestyle) are crucial for managing cardiovascular conditions.

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