MODULE 1

Question 1

Definition of Heart Failure
Q: Which of the following best defines heart failure?
A) A sudden cessation of cardiac function
B) The inability of the heart to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s needs
C) An increase in cardiac output beyond normal levels
D) A temporary condition with no long-term consequences

Answer 1

B) The inability of the heart to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s needs

Question 2

How does the Frank-Starling Law relate to heart failure?
A) It explains that a failing heart cannot increase stroke volume despite increased preload
B) It states that cardiac output is independent of preload
C) It suggests that a failing heart has enhanced contractility
D) It shows that heart failure only occurs when preload is excessively low

Answer 2

A) It explains that a failing heart cannot increase stroke volume despite increased preload

Question 3

Which of the following is not a common cause or risk factor for heart failure?
A) Hypertension
B) Myocardial infarction
C) Diabetes mellitus
D) Hypothyroidism

Answer 3

D) Hypothyroidism

Question 4

The activation of the Sympathetic Nervous System in heart failure primarily leads to:
A) Decreased heart rate and vasodilation
B) Increased heart rate and vasoconstriction
C) Decreased cardiac output
D) Reduced myocardial oxygen demand

Answer 4

B) Increased heart rate and vasoconstriction

Question 5

How does the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) contribute to heart failure progression?
A) By decreasing preload and afterload
B) By promoting vasoconstriction and fluid retention
C) By increasing myocardial contractility
D) By reducing sodium and water retention

Answer 5

B) By promoting vasoconstriction and fluid retention

Question 6

The two primary types of heart failure are:
A) Left-sided and right-sided heart failure
B) Systolic and diastolic heart failure
C) Acute and chronic heart failure
D) Mild and severe heart failure

Answer 6

A) Left-sided and right-sided heart failure

Question 7

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is characterized by:
A) Preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (≥50%)
B) Impaired left ventricular contractility (EF <40%)
C) Normal left ventricular function
D) A sudden increase in cardiac output

Answer 7

B) Impaired left ventricular contractility (EF <40%)

Question 8

Which symptom is most specific to left-sided heart failure?
A) Peripheral oedema
B) Jugular venous distension
C) Pulmonary congestion and dyspnoea
D) Hepatomegaly

Answer 8

C) Pulmonary congestion and dyspnoea

Question 9

Which diagnostic test is most commonly used to assess ejection fraction in heart failure?
A) Chest X-ray
B) Electrocardiogram (ECG)
C) Echocardiogram
D) Cardiac catheterisation

Answer 9

C) Echocardiogram

Question 10

Which pharmacological treatment is first-line therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF)?
A) Beta-blockers
B) ACE inhibitors
C) Calcium channel blockers
D) Digoxin

Answer 10

B) ACE inhibitors