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

    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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    Description

    Test your knowledge on the anatomy and functions of the cardiovascular system. This quiz covers key concepts including heart chambers, blood vessels, hypertension, and myocardial infarction. Challenge yourself and deepen your understanding of cardiovascular health!

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