Cardiovascular System Quiz

Questions and Answers

Which of the following is considered a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease?

Physical inactivity (correct)

Heredity

Age

Male gender

What is the relationship between heredity and cardiovascular disease risk?

Heredity increases the likelihood of developing heart disease. (correct)

Heredity only affects women.

Children of parents with heart disease have a lower risk.

Heredity has no influence on heart disease risk.

Which factor is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease but not yet well understood?

Non-contributing lifestyle choices

Modifiable risk factors

Contributing risk factors (correct)

Major risk factors

Which demographic group is noted to have a higher risk of severe high blood pressure?

African-Americans Signup and view all the answers

What lifestyle change can significantly reduce the risk factors for cardiovascular disease?

Regular physical activity Signup and view all the answers

What does Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) primarily indicate?

A cascade of symptoms associated with acute myocardial ischemia Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a type of Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Stable angina Signup and view all the answers

What is a common cause of Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Unstable or ruptured atherosclerotic plaque Signup and view all the answers

What does Unstable Angina (UA) indicate?

Ischemic symptoms without elevation in biomarkers Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is commonly associated with Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Profuse sweating Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the rise or fall in troponin levels in ACS diagnosis?

A typical rise and/or fall must occur in STEMI and NSTEMI Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following could lead to myocardial ischemia?

Coronary vasospasm Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms is a potential indicator of Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Alterations in mental status and confusion Signup and view all the answers

What is the first nursing intervention to be maintained for a patient after an acute episode?

Maintain bed rest for the first 3 days Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing diagnosis is related to reduced coronary blood flow from coronary thrombus?

Ineffective cardiopulmonary tissue perfusion Signup and view all the answers

Which activity indicates that a patient is ready to resume sexual activities after a cardiac event?

Walking at 3-4 mph Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention should be performed before starting any activity with the patient?

Check patient’s condition before, during, and after the activity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following would NOT be considered a nursing diagnosis related to a myocardial infarction (MI)?

Increased physical activity levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common cause of angina pectoris?

Coronary artery blockage Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is NOT typically associated with acute coronary syndrome?

Severe headache Signup and view all the answers

What typically triggers angina in patients?

Physical exertion or emotional stress Signup and view all the answers

What does the severity of angina pectoris depend on?

Precipitating activity Signup and view all the answers

Which artery narrowing percentage typically leads to significant coronary blockage?

70% Signup and view all the answers

Angina is a symptom of which underlying condition?

Coronary heart disease Signup and view all the answers

What condition could also cause angina aside from coronary artery disease?

Aortic stenosis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes angina pectoris?

A clinical syndrome characterized by episodic chest pain Signup and view all the answers

What does a complete blockage of a coronary artery indicate?

ST-elevation myocardial infarction Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is primarily used for pain relief in myocardial infarction management?

Morphine Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of administering ACE inhibitors in myocardial infarction?

Limit the size of the infarction Signup and view all the answers

What complication should be monitored for in the hours following a myocardial infarction?

Dysrhythmias Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing intervention is NOT part of the management of a myocardial infarction?

Provide a high-protein diet Signup and view all the answers

Which therapy is used to dissolve clots in the coronary arteries?

Thrombolytics Signup and view all the answers

What should be provided to a patient during a myocardial infarction for effective care?

Information about procedures and drug therapy Signup and view all the answers

In what position should a patient be placed to assist breathing during a myocardial infarction?

Semi-Fowler’s Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)

ACS refers to a range of symptoms associated with acute myocardial ischemia, which may or may not lead to infarction.
Types of ACS include:
- ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI)
- Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)
- Unstable Angina (UA)
A rise and/or fall in troponin levels, with at least one value exceeding the 99th percentile, identifies STEMI and NSTEMI.
UA presents with ischemic symptoms but no elevated biomarkers or ECG changes indicative of ischemia.

Causes of ACS

Decreased myocardial oxygen supply due to:
- Unstable or ruptured atherosclerotic plaque.
- Coronary vasospasm or atherosclerotic obstruction without clot.
- Inflammation or infection.
- Thrombus leading to artery occlusion.

Symptoms of ACS

Classic symptoms include:
- Substernal chest discomfort (pressure, heaviness, crushing).
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
- Nausea and diaphoresis.
- Dizziness and altered mental status.
Confusing symptoms can manifest as abdominal pain, dental discomfort, or excessive fatigue.

Angina Pectoris

Characterized by episodes of chest pain due to insufficient coronary blood flow.
Occurs in response to increased myocardial oxygen demand (exertion or stress).
Severity is defined by the impact on daily activities and is not a disease itself but a symptom of underlying heart conditions.
Can be triggered by other issues like arterial spasm or aortic stenosis.

Risk Factors for Coronary Disease

Major risk factors:
- Increasing age and gender (men at higher risk).
- Genetic predisposition, particularly in individuals with family histories of heart disease.
Modifiable risk factors:
- Tobacco use, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and physical inactivity.
Contributing factors include stress, alcohol consumption, and dietary choices.

STEMI and NSTEMI

STEMI signifies a complete blockage of a coronary artery, leading to a heart attack.
NSTEMI represents a partial blockage and is associated with different implications in treatment and prognosis.

Medical Management

Use of morphine for pain and anxiety reduction, and to improve oxygenation.
ACE inhibitors to reduce the effects of angiotensin II, lowering resistance and facilitating blood flow.
Thrombolytics such as Streptokinase and Alteplase dissolve clots to restore blood flow.
Oxygen therapy is vital for enhancing oxygen delivery.

Nursing Interventions

Administer oxygen and medications as prescribed (morphine, nitrates, thrombolytics).
Help alleviate patient anxiety through information and reassurance.
Implement rest periods to minimize metabolic demands and provide a proper diet.
Monitor for complications, especially dysrhythmias, post-myocardial infarction.

Post-Acute Episode Care

Maintain bed rest initially and gradually introduce mobility exercises.
Encourage progressive ambulation and evaluate the patient’s condition continuously.

Cardiac Rehabilitation

Aims to enhance quality of life through physical conditioning and may facilitate a return to previous lifestyle activities, such as sexual activity, when conditions permit.

Nursing Diagnoses for Myocardial Infarction (MI)

Ineffective cardiopulmonary tissue perfusion related to reduced coronary blood flow.
Risk of impaired gas exchange due to fluid overload.
Potential for altered peripheral tissue perfusion from decreased cardiac output.
Anxiety related to the fear of death and knowledge deficits about post-MI self-care.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the cardiovascular system, including anatomy, blood flow, and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This quiz covers key concepts related to myocardial ischemia and its symptoms. Perfect for nursing and medical students eager to enhance their understanding of heart health.