Constitutional Signs and Symptoms Quiz

Questions and Answers

What are constitutional signs and symptoms?

Symptoms affecting a specific organ

A group of symptoms that can affect many different systems of the body that require further evaluation (correct)

Symptoms caused by an infectious disease

Symptoms that are purely psychological and have no physical basis

Which of the following are examples of constitutional signs and symptoms? (Select all that apply)

Unexplained weight loss (correct)

Unexplained fever (correct)

Skin rash

Exercise induced fatigue

The hypothalamus is the master gland that regulates body temperature.

True

What is the gold standard for measuring body temperature?

Pulmonary artery thermometry Signup and view all the answers

What is the accepted normal body temperature for a healthy adult?

98.6°F Signup and view all the answers

What is the accepted body temperature range?

97.7°F to 99.5°F Signup and view all the answers

What is hyperthermia defined as?

Core body temperature greater than or equal to 104°F Signup and view all the answers

What is heat exhaustion defined as?

A mild heat related illness with body temperature less than 104°F Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are signs and symptoms of heat stroke? (Select all that apply)

Throbbing headache Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion? (Select all that apply)

Faint and dizzy Signup and view all the answers

What is hypothermia defined as?

Core body temperature ≤ 95°F Signup and view all the answers

How many degrees below the body's core temperature is considered hypothermia?

1-2 degrees Celsius Signup and view all the answers

Match the following components of a pulse with its corresponding description.

<h1>Rate = Beats per minute Rhythm = Whether the pulse is regular or irregular Amplitude = Whether the pulse is strong or weak</h1> Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal heart rate of a person?

60-100 beats per minute Signup and view all the answers

What heart rate is considered tachycardia in a person?

<blockquote> 100 BPM </blockquote> Signup and view all the answers

What heart rate is defined as bradycardia in a person?

Below 60 BPM Signup and view all the answers

How is heart rate measured?

By counting the number of heartbeats over a period of time Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding heart rate and left ventricular contractions?

Heart rate increases with enhanced left ventricular contractility. Signup and view all the answers

Do changes in vagal tone help maintain healthy gas exchange?

Yes, they facilitate improved gas exchange. Signup and view all the answers

Match the following respiratory phases with their effects on heart rate:

Inspiration = Heart rate increases Expiration = Heart rate decreases Signup and view all the answers

The direction of the conduction system from start to finish is the SA node, then AV node, then Bundle of His, then finally Purkinje fibers.

True Signup and view all the answers

A small and weak pulse can mean a person has decreased stroke volume and increased peripheral resistance.

True Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is associated with a large and bounding pulse amplitude?

Increased stroke volume Signup and view all the answers

Match the following descriptions of heart valves when it comes to pulse amplitude

<h1>Strong and bounding = Increased stroke volume Weak and thready = Decreased stroke volume</h1> = Signup and view all the answers

Which of these conditions can cause changes in pulse amplitude? (Select all that apply)

Coarctation of the aorta Signup and view all the answers

What condition is also known as Buerger disease?

Thromboangitis obliterans Signup and view all the answers

What is Buerger's disease primarily characterized by?

Inflammation and blockage of blood vessels in the arms and legs Signup and view all the answers

Match the following demographics with their capillary refill time:

Infants/Children/Adult Males = < 2 seconds Females = < 3 seconds Elderly = < 4 seconds Normal Capillary Refill = Less than respective time for each demographic Signup and view all the answers

You should blanch the nails for 5 seconds to test for capillary refill.

True Signup and view all the answers

Capillary refill is diminished in which of the following conditions? (Select all that apply)

Dehydration Signup and view all the answers

Skin with decreased turgor remains elevated after being pulled up and released.

True Signup and view all the answers

A decreased skin turgor test is indicative in patients who are dehydrated and of old age.

True Signup and view all the answers

Match the following respiratory rates with their definitions:

Normal = 14-20 breaths per minute (bpm) Fast = >25 bpm = tachypnea Slow = <12 bpm = bradypnea Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal respiratory rate for adults?

14-20 breaths per minute Signup and view all the answers

What is considered tachypnea in patients?

More than 25 breaths per minute Signup and view all the answers

What is considered bradypnea in patients?

Less than 12 breaths per minute (bpm) Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of Cheyne-Stokes abnormal breathing rhythm?

Alternating periods of crescendo, decrescendo, and apnea Signup and view all the answers

What is Ataxic Breathing defined as?

Irregular periods of alternating apnea and deep breaths Signup and view all the answers

Match the following abnormal breathing with their pathology:

Cheyne-Stokes = Stroke, kidney failure, and heart failure Ataxic breathing = Meningitis Hyperventilation = Anxiety Hyperpnea = Increased metabolic demand Signup and view all the answers

Match the definitions of the following respiratory amplitude conditions.

Deep breathing = Hyperpnea Shallow breathing = Hypopnea Hypopnea = Tachypnea Hyperpnea = Bradypnea Signup and view all the answers

How does a pulse oximeter measure blood oxygen saturation?

It measures it through red and infrared light Signup and view all the answers

Match the following blood oxygen saturation rates with their definitions:

Normal = 95-100% Concern = <94% or a drop of more than 3% COPD Normal = 88 – 92% Severe Hypoxia = 80-85% Signup and view all the answers

Match the following conditions with their definitions:

Hypoxia = Failure of normal tissue oxygenation Hypoxemia = Failure of normal blood oxygenation Signup and view all the answers

What is blood pressure defined as?

The pressure of the blood against the inner walls of the blood vessels Signup and view all the answers

What is Systolic Pressure?

The force exerted when the ventricles contract. Signup and view all the answers

What does diastolic pressure represent?

The pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest Signup and view all the answers

Match the following blood pressure categories with their systolic and diastolic levels:

Normal = <120 systolic and <80 diastolic Elevated = 120-129 systolic and <80 diastolic Stage 1 hypertension = 130-139 systolic and 80-90 diastolic Stage 2 hypertension = >140 systolic and >90 diastolic Hypertensive crisis = >180 systolic and >120 diastolic Signup and view all the answers

What is considered the Gold Standard for measuring blood pressure?

Wear a monitor continuously for approximately 24 hours. Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of hypotension?

Blood Pressure < 90/60 mm Hg Signup and view all the answers

When taking a person's blood pressure, if there is a 10 mm Hg to 15 mm Hg difference in systole from one arm to the other, then that means there is a decreased risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD).

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the difference between the systolic and diastolic pressures?

Pulse Pressure Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal pulse pressure range?

30-40 mmHg Signup and view all the answers

Match the following 5 stages of Korotkoff sounds to their definitions:

Phase 1 = 2 consecutive beats indicate the SYSTOLIC pressure and the beginning of the Korotkoff sounds. Phase 2 = Normally, phase 2 sounds take on a swishing/murmur sound. If the phase 2 sounds are absent, there is an Auscultatory gap. The gap can be wide or narrow. Phase 3 = Korotkoff sounds are 'Crisp'. Phase 4 = Korotkoff sounds becoming muffled and get softer, marking the 1st diastolic sound and closest approximation of direct diastolic arterial pressure. Phase 5 = From muffled to GONE! This is the 2nd and last diastolic sound. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in taking a patient's blood pressure besides placing the blood pressure cuff on the arm?

Estimate systolic pressure via palpation by obliterating radial pulse +30 mmHg Signup and view all the answers

What is orthostatic hypotension?

A condition where blood pressure drops slightly upon standing. Signup and view all the answers

What values would you see in orthostatic hypotension within 3 minutes of standing?

Drop in systolic pressure ≥ 20 mm Hg Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the feeling of lightheadedness or the sensation of fainting, especially common when rising from an adjusting table?

Presyncope Signup and view all the answers

What is the gold standard for diagnosing peripheral arterial disease of the lower extremities?

Ankle-brachial index (ABI) Signup and view all the answers

Match the following cardiovascular terms with their definitions:

Systole = Ventricular contraction Diastole = Ventricular relaxation Cardiac cycle = Contraction + relaxation Cardiac output = The amount of blood pumped into the aorta each minute Stroke volume = The amount of blood pumped during each ventricular contraction Signup and view all the answers

Valves are bidirectional.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a normal, open valve that allows blood to flow in a laminar, unobstructed fashion?

Patent Signup and view all the answers

The tricuspid valve is on the left side and the bicuspid valve is on the right side.

False Signup and view all the answers

Match the auscultation sites to their location of the heart:

2nd right intercostal space; sternal border = Aortic area 2nd left intercostal space; sternal border = Pulmonic area 3rd left intercostal space; sternal border = Erb's Point 4th & 5th left intercostal space; sternal border = Tricuspid area 5th left intercostal space; mid-clavicular line = Mitral area Signup and view all the answers

Match the type of auscultatory sound to their definition:

Murmur = Turbulence in the heart Bruit = Turbulence in the arteries Korotkoff sounds = Artificial turbulence via BP cuff in the arteries Signup and view all the answers

What causes the S1 and S2 heart sounds?

S1 is due to the AV valves closing, and S2 is caused by the semilunar valves closing. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common cause of death in the U.S.?

Heart disease (coronary artery disease) Signup and view all the answers

What are three causes of pleuritic chest pain from the heart? (Select all that apply)

Myocardial infarction Signup and view all the answers

What are three potential causes of pleuritic chest pain related to the lungs? (Select all that apply)

Pneumonia Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of coronary artery disease?

Disease caused by healthy arteries becoming hardened and narrowed due to atherosclerotic plaque. Signup and view all the answers

Coronary artery disease presents with which of the following symptoms? (Select all that apply)

Chest pain with effort/exertion (Stable angina) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms are commonly associated with Myocardial Infarction? (Select all that apply)

Unstable angina Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of Levine's sign?

The patient slams their fist on their chest and complains of pressure, as if an elephant is stepping on their chest. Signup and view all the answers

Is it true that an aortic dissection is described as a separation of the arterial layers tunica intima from the tunica media?

True Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following present with aortic dissections? (Select all that apply)

Tearing sensation that radiates to the back/abdomen Signup and view all the answers

What are the components of cardiac tamponade, also known as Beck's triad?

Hypotension, JVP distension, muffled heart sounds Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements describes pulsus paradoxus in relation to an aortic dissection?

During inhalation, increased right ventricular filling leads to higher right-sided pressure, which compresses the left ventricle and causes a drop in blood pressure. Signup and view all the answers

Match the presentation of pericarditis:

Palliative position = Sitting or leaning forward Provocative position = Laying down or coughing Signup and view all the answers

Pericarditis friction rub sounds are due to which of the following?

Ventricular contraction Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are common presentations of heart failure? (Select all that apply)

Pitting edema Signup and view all the answers

Match the condition with its presentation:

Left Ventricular Failure (LVF) = Pulmonary Edema Right Ventricular Failure (RVF) = Peripheral Edema Signup and view all the answers

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is defined as ventricular hypertrophy without chamber dilation, and is most commonly seen in older female adults.

False Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are presentations of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy? (Select all that apply)

Exertional pre-syncope Signup and view all the answers

When conducting a peripheral vascular exam on the lower extremity, which two arteries do you palpate?

Posterior tibial artery and Dorsalis pedis artery Signup and view all the answers

Absence of hair or hair loss is common in individuals with which kind of condition?

Peripheral arterial disease Signup and view all the answers

Lymphedema is normally pitting.

False Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions are commonly associated with pitting edema? (Select all that apply)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) Signup and view all the answers

Which jugular vein contains the body's internal barometer?

Right internal jugular vein Signup and view all the answers

Match the following presentations of the right carotid artery with the internal jugular vein:

Right IJV = Biphasic Right IJV = Non-palpable Carotid artery = Monophasic Carotid artery = Palpable Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal height measurement of the jugular venous pulsation when measured from the height of the venous pulsation to the sternal angle of Louis?

Less than or equal to 3 cm Signup and view all the answers

Where is the apical impulse located?

At the apex of the heart, located at the left 5th intercostal space midclavicular line Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of precordium?

The area of the chest that is over the heart Signup and view all the answers

Match the definitions with their palpation sensations:

Thrill = Vibratory sensation Thrill = Due to turbulent blood flow Lifts/Heaves = Rhythmic pulsations Lifts/Heaves = Due to cardiac hypertrophy or ventricular aneurysms Signup and view all the answers

When should a percussion heart exam be conducted on a patient?

Only when the apical impulse cannot be located during inspection Signup and view all the answers

In which patient position are murmurs best heard?

Leaning forward Signup and view all the answers

Match the heart sounds with their corresponding descriptions:

S1 = Closure of AV valves S2 = Closure of semilunar valves S1 = Systolic S2 = Diastolic Signup and view all the answers

The carotid pulse will always coincide with the systolic space or directly at S2.

False Signup and view all the answers

Match the heart sounds with their corresponding timing in relation to the carotid pulse:

S1 = Just before the carotid pulse S2 = Follows the carotid pulse Signup and view all the answers

S1 should be heard loudest over which area?

Mitral area Signup and view all the answers

S2 should be heard loudest over which area?

Aortic area Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions can cause an abnormal heart S2 split sound? (Select all that apply)

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

An S2 split during exhalation is normal.

False Signup and view all the answers

Match the heart sound with their condition:

S1 split during inhalation = Normal S2 split during inhalation = Normal S2 split during exhalation = Abnormal Signup and view all the answers

Why are heart splits considered normal during inhalation?

The right side of the heart fills more during inhalation, which increases ventricular ejection, lengthening the time it takes for the valves to close. Signup and view all the answers

What is the cause of a gallop in the heart?

It is caused by blood from the left atrium striking a non-compliant left ventricle. Signup and view all the answers

Both S3 and S4 sounds occur during diastole.

True Signup and view all the answers

Match the following heart sounds with their corresponding events:

S3 = Passive ventricular filling S4 = Active ventricular filling Signup and view all the answers

What event creates the sound heard during an S3 gallop?

Blood draining passively from the left atrium and striking a non-compliant left ventricle. Signup and view all the answers

What event creates an S4 gallop?

Blood actively filling from the left atrium and striking a non-compliant left ventricle. Signup and view all the answers

Match the following conditions with their associated clinical signs:

S4 gallop = Ventricular hypertrophy S3 gallop in older adults >35 years old = Heart failure Signup and view all the answers

What causes an ejection sound during systole when the aortic and pulmonic valves fully open?

Aortic valve stenosis Signup and view all the answers

Snaps are short and occur with A/V valve opening. Classically, an opening snap is associated with which condition?

Mitral valve stenosis Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of a nonejection click in relation to mitral valve prolapse?

It is related to tensing of the chordae tendineae or valve leaflets Signup and view all the answers

Match the following cardiac sounds with their corresponding conditions:

Opening snap = Mitral valve stenosis Ejection sound = Semilunar valve stenosis Non-ejection click = Mitral valve prolapse Ejection click = Ejection sound Signup and view all the answers

Which two components are required for a cardiac rub to occur?

Inflammation and movement Signup and view all the answers

A 2 component cardiac rub still has 3 components to it. Which of the following is the 3rd component of a 2 component cardiac rub?

Friction from the pleura Signup and view all the answers

Murmurs are sounds created by which of the following?

Turbulent blood flow in the heart Signup and view all the answers

Murmurs are sounds due to vibrations from the flow of turbulent blood through a pathological heart valve, a narrowed chamber, or an unusual connection between chambers.

True Signup and view all the answers

Match the following pathological changes to murmurs with when they occur:

Aortic Valve Stenosis = Systolic Murmur Pulmonic Valve Stenosis = Systolic Murmur Mitral Valve Regurgitation = Systolic Murmur Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation = Systolic Murmur Aortic Valve Regurgitation = Diastolic Murmur Pulmonic Valve Regurgitation = Diastolic Murmur Mitral Valve Stenosis = Diastolic Murmur Tricuspid Valve Stenosis = Diastolic Murmur Signup and view all the answers

Match the following pathological changes to murmurs with when they occur:

Mitral valve prolapse = Systolic murmur Atrial septal defect = Systolic murmur Ventricular septal defect = Systolic murmur Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy = Systolic murmur Austin-Flint murmur = Diastolic murmur Patent ductus arteriosus = Continuous murmur Combination murmurs = Continuous murmur Signup and view all the answers

Match the part of the stethoscope to the sound you should be listening to:

Diaphragm = Higher pitched sounds Bell = Lower pitched sounds Diaphragm = S1 & S2 Bell = Gallop and other pathological sounds Signup and view all the answers

Match the systolic murmur grades with the intensity of the sound:

Grade 1 = Barely audible Grade 2 = Faint but easily audible Grade 3 = Loud murmur without palpable thrill Grade 4 = Loud murmur with a palpable thrill Grade 5 = Very loud murmur heard with the stethoscope lightly on the chest Grade 6 = Very loud murmur that can be heard without a stethoscope Signup and view all the answers

Which systolic murmur grades would you have a palpable thrill? (Select all that apply)

Grades 4-6 Signup and view all the answers

Innocent murmurs are common in children.

True Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of an innocent murmur? (Select all that apply)

Grade 3 or less murmur Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following cardiac pathologies is a chronic condition?

Coronary artery disease Signup and view all the answers

120/80 mm Hg represents a normal blood pressure reading.

False Signup and view all the answers

A freckle that is less than 1 cm in diameter and NOT palpable is an example of a __________________.

macule Signup and view all the answers

Herpes simplex 1 (cold sore) and Herpes zoster (shingles) present as which type of lesion?

vesicles Signup and view all the answers

When exogenous heat raises one's core body temperature to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, the individual suffers from _______________.

heat stroke Signup and view all the answers

A systolic murmur heard loudest at the left, fifth intercostal space at the mid-clavicular line suggests which of the following?

Mitral Regurgitation Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal pulse/heart rate?

60-100 bpm Signup and view all the answers

A venous thrombosis of the lower extremity commonly presents with edema, redness, and heat.

True Signup and view all the answers

Nevus is the medical term for a _____________.

mole Signup and view all the answers

A murmur commonly indicates which of the following?

Valvular disease Signup and view all the answers

What is another name for tinea pedis?

athlete's foot Signup and view all the answers

Your 65-year-old male patient presents with acute substernal chest pain, sweating, and hypotension. The patient's substernal chest pain does not go away with rest and there is no rub noted during auscultation. From what is your patient most likely suffering?

Myocardial Infarction Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is associated with the presence of crackles during auscultation?

Lobar pneumonia Signup and view all the answers

A 25-year-old male presents with severe substernal chest pain that started one day ago. Laying down is provocative, and you note a rub that is present when the patient holds his breath. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Pericarditis Signup and view all the answers

Tinea refers to a __________ infection of the skin. a) Viral b) Fungal c) Protozoan d) Bacterial

Fungal Signup and view all the answers

A patient complains of dizziness when rising from a supine position. You check the patient's blood pressure while she is supine and it measures 120/85. You immediately take the patient's blood pressure a second time while she is standing, and it measures 114/85. According to the parameters discussed in class, this patient does not have orthostatic hypotension.

True Signup and view all the answers

A breathing pattern of repeating crescendo, decrescendo, and apnea is characteristic of ______________.

Cheyne-Stokes breathing Signup and view all the answers

A blood pressure reading of 126 mmHg / 78 mmHg is classified as type 1 hypertension.

False Signup and view all the answers

Based on the abnormal systolic heart sound heard in an audio file, from which pathology is the patient most likely suffering?

Mitral Valve Regurgitation Signup and view all the answers

What does a sporadic heart rhythm indicate?

Sinus arrhythmia Signup and view all the answers

What does a regularly irregular heart rhythm indicate? (Select all that apply)

Heart disease Signup and view all the answers

What does an irregularly irregular heart rhythm indicate?

Atrial fibrillation Signup and view all the answers

Where does a sporadic heart rhythm occur?

SA node Signup and view all the answers

Which lobe of the lung is a common site for lung pathologies?

Right middle lobe Signup and view all the answers

Match the location of the inferior lobe of the lungs to their respective rib levels:

Anterior = 6th rib Middle = 8th rib Posterior = T10 Signup and view all the answers

The oblique fissure separating the superior and inferior lobes of the lung runs from T3 to the 6th rib.

True Signup and view all the answers

Which nerves innervate the diaphragm?

C3, C4, and C5 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes dyspnea?

Uncomfortable awareness of breathing that is inappropriate to the level of exertion Signup and view all the answers

Match the type of pathology with their corresponding category:

Atelectasis = Parenchyma Pneumonia = Parenchyma Bronchitis = Tubes Pleural Effusion = Pleural Space Pneumothorax = Pleural Space Emphysema = Parenchyma Asthma = Tubes Left Ventricular Failure (LVF) = Parenchyma Signup and view all the answers

In obstructive lung disease, what substances typically cause the obstruction of airways?

Edema and mucus Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Blue bloater' refer to in the context of respiratory conditions?

Cyanosis due to lack of oxygen and edema causing weight gain Signup and view all the answers

Which common symptoms are associated with blue bloater? (Select all that apply)

Purulent sputum Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of cor pulmonale?

A condition caused by pulmonary hypertension leading to right-sided heart failure Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are causes of asthma? (Select all that apply)

Hypersensitivity reaction to dust Signup and view all the answers

Cystic fibrosis is a condition due to a viral infection.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is bronchiectasis?

A pathological dilation of airways due to repetitive infections in the lungs. Signup and view all the answers

Emphysema is a condition affecting the bronchioles, not the alveoli.

False Signup and view all the answers

Emphysema is an autoimmune response that has which of the following effects? (Select all that apply)

Destruction of the septum between the alveoli Signup and view all the answers

How do patients with emphysema become barrel chested?

Lack of gas exchange causes a buildup of air in the alveoli leading to chest distension. Signup and view all the answers

What condition is described by a 'pink puffer,' characterized by difficulty exhaling and excessive caloric expenditure while breathing?

Emphysema Signup and view all the answers

Why do patients with obstructive lung disease wheeze only upon exhalation?

As you breathe in, alveoli expand, causing the bronchiole lumen to expand with it, like a balloon. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are considered obstructive lung diseases? (Select all that apply)

Asthma Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms to their definitions:

Consolidation = Anything that fills up in the alveoli Transudate = Fluid buildup caused by systemic conditions that alter pressure in blood vessels Exudate = Fluid buildup caused by leaky tissues due to inflammation or cellular damage Transudate = Pulmonary edema secondary to left ventricular failure (LVF) Exudate = Pneumonia Signup and view all the answers

Left Sided Heart Failure is a common cause of Pulmonary Edema.

True Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Constitutional Signs and Symptoms

Constitutional signs and symptoms refer to general indicators of illness that affect the whole body.
Common examples include fatigue, fever, weight loss, and malaise.

Body Temperature Regulation

The hypothalamus regulates body temperature as the master gland.
The gold standard for measuring body temperature is the rectal temperature method.
Accepted normal body temperature for a healthy adult is approximately 98.6°F (37°C).
Normal body temperature range is 97°F to 100.4°F (36.1°C to 38°C).
Hyperthermia is defined as an abnormal rise in body temperature, generally above 100.4°F (38°C).
Heat exhaustion is characterized by heavy sweating, weakness, and fainting due to excessive heat exposure.

Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, rapid heartbeat, and cessation of sweating.
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion involve excessive sweating, weakness, headache, and nausea.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is defined as a body temperature below 95°F (35°C).
A body temperature that is 2°F (1.1°C) or more below the body's core temperature is considered hypothermic.

Heart Rate and Physiology

Normal heart rate in an adult is between 60 to 100 beats per minute.
Tachycardia is defined as a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute.
Bradycardia is defined as a heart rate below 60 beats per minute.
Heart rate is measured through palpation of pulse points, auscultation, or electronic devices.

Cardiac Conduction and Pulse

The heart's conduction system follows the sequence: SA node, AV node, Bundle of His, Purkinje fibers.
A weak pulse may indicate decreased stroke volume and increased peripheral resistance.
A large and bounding pulse amplitude can indicate conditions such as fever or hyperthyroidism.

Capillary Refill Test

To test capillary refill, blanch nails for 5 seconds; normal refill time is less than 2 seconds.
Diminished capillary refill may occur in conditions such as hypovolemic shock and peripheral vascular disease.
Skin with decreased turgor does not promptly return after being pinched and indicates dehydration.

Respiratory Rate and Patterns

Normal respiratory rate for adults is 12 to 20 breaths per minute.
Tachypnea is defined as a respiratory rate over 20 breaths per minute.
Bradypnea is defined as a respiratory rate below 12 breaths per minute.
Cheyne-Stokes breathing is characterized by alternating periods of deep and shallow breaths.
Ataxic breathing lacks a rhythm and is erratic in nature.

Blood Pressure Measurement

Blood pressure is defined as the force of blood against the walls of the arteries.
Systolic pressure represents the force during heartbeats; diastolic pressure reflects the force when the heart is at rest.
The gold standard for measuring blood pressure is the auscultatory method using a sphygmomanometer.
Hypotension refers to blood pressure lower than 90/60 mm Hg.
Normal pulse pressure range is 40 mm Hg (systolic minus diastolic).

Conditions Affecting Blood Pressure

Orthostatic hypotension is a drop in blood pressure when standing and can present with dizziness.
A difference of 10 mm Hg to 15 mm Hg in systolic readings between arms can indicate peripheral artery disease.

Cardiovascular Health

Valves in the heart ensure unidirectional blood flow; a normal valve allows laminar flow.
The first step in measuring blood pressure is palpating the brachial artery.
External factors such as medications and hydration status can affect pulse amplitude.

Heart Sounds and Conditions

S1 and S2 heart sounds are caused by the closing of heart valves during the cardiac cycle.
Abnormal heart sounds may indicate underlying cardiovascular conditions.
Common causes of pleuritic chest pain can stem from cardiac issues or lung-related problems.
Coronary artery disease manifests through symptoms like angina and shortness of breath.

Peripheral Vascular Examination

The absence of hair on extremities can suggest vascular conditions.
Pitting edema is commonly seen in heart failure and kidney disease.

Jugular Venous Pulsation

Normal height for jugular venous pulsation is 3 to 4 cm above the sternal angle.
The precordium refers to the area over the heart's anterior surface.

Auscultation and Heart Murmurs

Murmurs are best heard when the patient is in the left lateral decubitus position.
Heart sounds correspond to the cardiac cycle and differ in intensity depending on the area of auscultation.

Aortic Dissection and Cardiac Tamponade

Aortic dissection involves a separation of the arterial layers, presenting symptoms like severe chest pain.
Beck's triad in cardiac tamponade includes hypotension, jugular venous distension, and muffled heart sounds.

Heart Failure and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Common presentations of heart failure include dyspnea, fatigue, and edema.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy features ventricular hypertrophy without dilation, especially in older females.

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Description

Test your knowledge on constitutional signs and symptoms with this quiz. Understand the fundamental concepts and present important symptoms that are often significant in clinical assessments. Ideal for students in healthcare and medical fields.