Viva for Case Study Flashcards
Prepare for 30 minute Viva (86 cards)
What is the primary cardiac diagnosis in the case study?
STEMI (ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction)
What major artery was treated during the cardiac event?
The left anterior descending artery (LAD), treated with PPCI and stent insertion.
What does PPCI stand for and what does it involve?
Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention — an emergency angioplasty to open a blocked coronary artery using a balloon and stent.
What complication was diagnosed post-STEMI?
Heart failure, NYHA Class II.
What investigation confirmed the diagnosis of heart failure?
Echocardiogram on 23/3/24 showing an ejection fraction of 33%.
What does an ejection fraction of 33% indicate?
Severely reduced left ventricular function, increasing the risk of symptoms and cardiac complications.
What symptom history led up to the STEMI diagnosis?
Chest pain during gym activity misattributed to indigestion, followed by shortness of breath and fatigue. On return to the gym days later, symptoms worsened with hot, clammy feeling.
How was the diagnosis of STEMI confirmed in hospital?
ECG confirmed ST elevation and troponin levels were elevated, indicating myocardial infarction.
What was the patient’s cardiac risk profile at the time of event?
Obesity (BMI 34), Type 2 Diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, ex-smoker, family history (father had MI at 58).
What cardiac rehabilitation phase I care was given in hospital?
ECG and angiogram, PPCI to LAD, echocardiogram, diagnosis confirmed and discussed, education on medication and risk factors, BHF resources provided.
What medication change occurred during Phase II follow-up?
Losartan dose was increased to manage breathlessness from heart failure.
What follow-up support was provided in Phase II?
Nurse contact via GP surgery, written medication guidance, advice on side effects, and dietary advice for cholesterol reduction.
Why is the patient considered high risk in this case study?
Because he has heart failure (NYHA Class II) and a severely reduced ejection fraction of 33%, indicating poor left ventricular function.
How does a low ejection fraction (33%) impact exercise prescription?
It reflects reduced cardiac output and increased risk of arrhythmia. A sudden increase in workload is ill-advised, so a cautious, progressive approach is needed.
What are key supervision requirements for this patient in Phase III?
High staff-to-patient ratio (1:3–1:5), with trained cardiac rehab professionals. Close monitoring of symptoms and workload is essential.
When can the patient transition to Phase IV home exercise?
After consistent, symptom-free participation in Phase III and demonstrated ability to self-monitor safely.
Why is RPE monitoring preferred over heart rate for this patient?
Because beta blockers lower heart rate response, making RPE and the talk test more reliable for judging exercise intensity.
What should be avoided in this patient’s exercise sessions?
Sudden workload increases, isometric holds, breath-holding, extreme temperatures, and excessive postural changes.
What are key signs to monitor for during exercise in heart failure patients?
Breathlessness, chest pain, dizziness, fatigue, palpitations, ankle oedema, and unusual BP responses.
Why is extended warm-up and cool-down essential in this case?
To prevent hypotension, venous pooling, and cardiac strain. They also support safe transitions into and out of exercise.
What aerobic prescription is recommended for this patient?
Start with 3 × 5-minute bouts at RPE 9–11, progressing to 30 minutes continuous at RPE 11–13.
When should resistance training begin in this case?
Only after aerobic tolerance is established. Start with light resistance, 1–2 sets of 10–12 reps, avoiding isometric or breath-holding.
What is the purpose of Aspirin and Ticagrelor in cardiac rehab patients?
They are antiplatelet agents used to reduce the risk of clot formation post-STEMI and stenting.