Cardiovascular Theme Flashcards

(9 cards)

1
Q

Understand basic anatomy of key components of the cardiovascular system

A

The cardiovascular system consists of arteries, veins, capillaries, and the heart. Arteries are thick to withstand high pressure; veins have valves to prevent backflow. Blood is composed of plasma, a buffy coat (WBCs and platelets), and red blood cells (RBCs). The heart is enclosed by the epicardium and pericardium, which protect and nourish it.

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2
Q

Understand the cardiac conduction system and how this is measured with an echocardiogram (ECG)

A

The SA node initiates electrical signals, passing to the AV node, bundle of His, and Purkinje fibers. ECG measures this activity: P wave = atrial depolarization, Q = septal depolarization, R = ventricular depolarization, T = ventricular repolarization.

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3
Q

Understand the aetiology, pathophysiology, and clinical presentations of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as hypertension

A

CVDs result from genetic and lifestyle factors. Hypertension develops from high cardiac output or vascular resistance. Symptoms may be silent or include headaches, fatigue, or end-organ damage.

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4
Q

Understand risk factors for cardiovascular disease and the role of lifestyle modifications in the prevention and management of CVDs

A

Risk factors include smoking, high BP, poor diet, inactivity, age, and genetics. Lifestyle changes like exercise, stress reduction, diet, and quitting smoking can prevent and treat CVDs.

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5
Q

Understand that hypertension is common and is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease and kidney disease.

A

Hypertension contributes to strokes, heart failure, kidney disease, sexual dysfunction, and dementia. It is treatable and preventable with lifestyle changes and medications.

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6
Q

Understand that blood pressure is determined by peripheral vascular resistance and cardiac output

A

BP = CO x TPR. Cardiac Output (CO) = Stroke Volume x Heart Rate. Total Peripheral Resistance (TPR) depends on the diameter of arteries and arterioles.

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7
Q

Understand how the kidney influences blood pressure by controlling blood volume

A

Kidneys control BP by filtering blood and adjusting salt and water levels. RAAS and vasopressin help retain water and salt, increasing blood volume and BP.

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8
Q

Understand the importance of sodium chloride (salt) for regulating blood volume

A

Salt attracts water and maintains plasma volume. Without enough salt, plasma volume drops, reducing BP. The body compensates by triggering salt appetite and reabsorption mechanisms.

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9
Q
A
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