Week 7 Content Flashcards

(111 cards)

1
Q

What is shock?

A

Shock is a clinical condition where end organs receive insufficient oxygenation to meet minimal metabolic requirements.

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2
Q

What three components are required to ensure adequate oxygen and nutrient delivery to the body’s cells?

A

The cardiac pump (heart), the circulatory system (veins and arteries), and sufficient blood volume.

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3
Q

Is shock a disease?

A

No, shock is not a disease but a term used to describe a group of symptoms caused by various disorders.

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4
Q

What are the three main causes of shock?

A

Decreased blood volume (e.g., bleeding, dehydration). Pump failure (heart not pumping effectively). Vasodilation (blood vessels expanding, reducing blood delivery).

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5
Q

Why is it crucial for healthcare professionals to recognize shock quickly?

A

Because a patient’s health status can change at any time, and immediate intervention may be required to prevent severe complications or death.

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6
Q

What are the three main categories of shock?

A

Hypovolemic shock, Cardiogenic shock, and Distributive shock.

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7
Q

What causes hypovolemic shock?

A

Hypovolemic shock occurs due to an insufficient amount of circulating blood volume caused by hemorrhage (blood loss), plasma loss, or dehydration.

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8
Q

What are the signs and symptoms of hypovolemic shock?

A

Increased heart and respiratory rate, followed by decreased blood pressure (BP).

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9
Q

What causes cardiogenic shock?

A

Cardiogenic shock occurs when the heart does not pump enough blood to vital organs due to a problem with the heart itself.

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10
Q

What causes obstructive shock?

A

Obstructive shock is caused by a physical obstruction of circulation either into or out of the heart.

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11
Q

What are the signs and symptoms of obstructive shock?

A

Chest pain, fatigue, a feeling of doom, and abnormal pulse and blood pressure (either increased or decreased).

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12
Q

What causes distributive shock?

A

Distributive shock occurs when normal blood volume is insufficient to fill the increased size of the blood vessels, despite the heart and blood volume remaining normal.

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13
Q

What are the three types of distributive shock?

A

Neurogenic shock, Anaphylactic shock, and Septic shock.

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14
Q

What causes neurogenic shock?

A

Neurogenic shock is caused by a loss of sympathetic vasoconstrictor tone in vascular smooth muscles, leading to massive vasodilation, decreased venous return, decreased cardiac output, and inadequate tissue oxygenation. Causes include severe pain, extreme emotional stress, fear, anxiety, spinal cord injury, and post-anesthesia.

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15
Q

What are the signs and symptoms of neurogenic shock?

A

Decreased blood pressure (BP), dry warm skin, and a decreased pulse.

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16
Q

What causes anaphylactic shock?

A

Anaphylactic shock is a life-threatening allergic reaction where an antigen triggers antibodies, causing generalized vasodilation and increased capillary permeability. This leads to decreased cardiac output, decreased arterial blood pressure, and respiratory/circulatory failure.

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17
Q

What are the signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock?

A

Respiratory distress (wheezing or stridor), decreased BP, increased pulse, and symptoms such as pruritus (itching).

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18
Q

What causes septic shock?

A

Septic shock is caused by an overwhelming infection where toxic substances act on blood vessels, leading to severe vasodilation, depressed cardiac function, and dangerously low blood pressure. This results in decreased blood flow to vital organs.

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19
Q

What are the signs and symptoms of septic shock?

A

Increased pulse and respiratory rate, and a temperature greater than 38°C or less than 36°C.

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20
Q

What are the 3 stages of shock

A

Compensatory
Progressive
Irreversible

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21
Q

What is a hemorrhage?

A

A hemorrhage is the loss of large amounts of blood from the blood vessels, which can be external or internal and fast or gradual.

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22
Q

What factors determine the severity of a hemorrhage?

A

The severity depends on:

  • The source of bleeding (arterial, venous, or capillary)
  • The extent of vessel damage
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23
Q

How can you distinguish between arterial, venous, and capillary bleeding?

A

Arterial bleed: Bright red, profuse, and spurting. Most serious due to high pressure.
Venous bleed: Darker red, slower, and steadier flow.
Capillary bleed: Slow, oozing, and usually less severe.

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24
Q

Why are arterial bleeds more dangerous than venous bleeds?

A

Arterial blood is under higher pressure, causing rapid blood loss, and it does not clot as quickly as venous blood.

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25
What general symptoms may indicate excessive bleeding (internal or external)?
Symptoms include: - Signs of shock (increased heart rate and respiration, decreased BP, pallor, dizziness, diaphoresis, anxiety, altered consciousness) - Pain or pressure sensation - Swelling, bruising, or distention - Blood on dressings, clothing, or sheets
26
What is hematemesis? What does it indicate?
Hematemesis is vomiting blood. ## Footnote Frank (red) blood = fresh upper GI bleed Coffee-ground emesis = older blood, digested by stomach acid
27
What does rectal bleeding indicate?
Bright red blood = lower GI bleeding Dark red or black tarry stool = upper GI bleeding
28
What is hemoptysis?
Coughing up blood due to bleeding in the respiratory system.
29
When is vaginal bleeding a concern?
Vaginal bleeding with or without clots can indicate: - Postpartum hemorrhage - Pregnancy loss - Other gynecological emergencies
30
What systemic disorders can cause seizures?
Infections, Cardiac events, Drug overdoses or underdoses, Toxins, Hypoxia (oxygen deprivation)
31
How can high fevers cause seizures?
In children under 3 years old, high fevers can trigger febrile convulsions.
32
What nervous system pathologies can induce seizures?
Scar tissue from head trauma, Congenital brain defects, Vascular brain defects, Cerebral tumors, Hypoxia (lack of oxygen) leading to nervous system hyperexcitability
33
What does 'idiopathic' mean in relation to seizures?
Idiopathic seizures have no known cause, occur without a history, and follow no clear pattern.
34
What are the three major causes of seizures?
Idiopathic causes (unknown origin), Nervous system pathology (brain-related conditions), Systemic disorders (affecting the whole body)
35
What is a seizure?
A seizure is an uncontrolled, abnormal discharge of electrical activity in the gray matter of the brain, causing symptoms that interfere with normal consciousness and motor function.
36
Is a seizure a disease?
No, a seizure is a symptom, not a disease. It describes all seizure activity, ranging from mild tingling or trembling to violent, full-body convulsions.
37
What are the possible severe consequences of seizures?
Severe seizures can lead to: Loss of consciousness, Physical injuries, Loss of protective reflexes
38
What is a generalized seizure?
A seizure that appears to involve both hemispheres of the brain. These seizures can be convulsive/motor or non-convulsive/non-motor in nature.
39
How are seizures classified?
Seizures are classified based on the area of the brain involved and the signs and symptoms observed.
40
What are the main classifications of seizures?
Focal onset (with or without awareness impairment, motor or non-motor) Generalized onset (motor and non-motor, always with impaired awareness) Unknown onset (motor and non-motor) Unclassified
41
What is a focal (partial) seizure?
A seizure that occurs in one area of the brain. Symptoms depend on the brain region affected.
42
What are the two types of focal onset seizures?
Focal seizure with awareness intact Focal seizure with impaired awareness
43
What are possible symptoms of focal seizures?
Symptoms range from mild sensations (paresthesia, déjà vu) to visible motor components like jerking movements.
44
What happens if a focal seizure spreads?
It can become a generalized seizure, called a focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizure.
45
What is an aura in relation to seizures?
An aura is a brief sensory experience that occurs just before a seizure spreads, signaling an impending seizure.
46
What types of sensations can an aura include?
A person may feel, hear, smell, see, or taste something unusual before a seizure.
47
What should you do if someone reports an aura?
Stop what you’re doing and assist them to a safe position to prevent injury.
48
What is the primary treatment for status epilepticus?
Medications (AEDs) to stop seizures and prevent recurrence.
49
How can epilepsy and status epilepticus be prevented?
Inpatient care to monitor for further seizures Daily AEDs to reduce seizure frequency Adjusting AED dose or type if needed.
50
How should a patient with status epilepticus be managed?
Protect from injury, like during a generalized seizure Maintain the airway and suction as needed Administer high-flow oxygen by mask Administer AEDs (antiepileptic drugs) as ordered.
51
What is status epilepticus?
A medical emergency where seizures are continuous or occur so rapidly in succession that the brain does not recover between them.
52
Why is status epilepticus dangerous?
It can be life-threatening, unlike a single seizure, due to prolonged seizure activity.
53
What are common causes of status epilepticus?
Failure to take anticonvulsant medication Hypoglycemia Spontaneous occurrence.
54
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurologic disorder marked by sudden recurrent seizures.
55
How is epilepsy diagnosed?
Epilepsy is diagnosed when a person has two or more unprovoked seizures occurring more than 24 hours apart.
56
In which age groups is epilepsy most common?
Children, especially in the first year of life Adults over 55, due to strokes, tumors, or Alzheimer's.
57
How is a stroke diagnosed?
With CT scan, MRI fast stroke protocols, or angiography to determine stroke type.
58
How are ischemic strokes treated?
With a thrombolytic drug to dissolve the clot, but only if given immediately.
59
Why must hemorrhagic strokes NOT be treated with thrombolytics?
Thrombolytics worsen bleeding, making the stroke more severe or causing rebleeding.
60
What treatment is required for some hemorrhagic strokes?
Surgical intervention may be necessary to stop the bleeding and prevent recurrence.
61
What acronym is used to remember the signs of a stroke?
FAST F – Facial drooping A – Arm weakness S – Speech difficulties T – Time is critical (Act fast!)
62
What are other possible symptoms of a stroke?
Facial drooping, eyelid droop, inability to smile Altered speech, vision, hearing, or smell Cognitive impairment, difficulty comprehending Balance issues, difficulty walking Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body Severe headache, dizziness, vomiting Severe cases: Breathing problems or death
63
What is a stroke (CVA)?
A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted, leading to brain cell damage.
64
What are the two main types of strokes?
Ischemic stroke – caused by a thrombus or embolism blocking blood flow. Hemorrhagic stroke – caused by bleeding due to vessel rupture or trauma.
65
Why is stroke a medical emergency?
Immediate recognition and medical intervention are crucial to limit brain damage and improve outcomes.
66
What is hypoglycemia?
Low blood sugar due to too much insulin or not enough glucose intake.
67
What causes hypoglycemia?
Fasting for tests or procedures Long-acting insulin or oral antihyperglycemic medications Too much insulin and not enough glucose.
68
Why is hypoglycemia dangerous?
Develops quickly and can cause: Brain cell death Seizures Altered consciousness Death if untreated Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar/Glucose or Diabetic Ketoacidosis - DKA).
69
What is hyperglycemia?
High blood sugar due to insufficient insulin, preventing glucose metabolism.
70
What happens when the body cannot metabolize glucose?
The body breaks down fats and proteins for energy, leading to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
71
Why is hyperglycemia dangerous?
Long-term effects: Nerve and vessel damage Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): Can be fatal due to blood chemistry changes.
72
How does hyperglycemia differ from hypoglycemia in onset?
Hypoglycemia: Rapid onset, requiring immediate treatment Hyperglycemia: Gradual onset, allowing time for intervention.
73
What is diabetes mellitus?
A chronic disease caused by abnormalities in insulin/glucose metabolism, leading to high or low blood sugar levels.
74
What causes diabetes?
An imbalance between insulin supply from the pancreas and the body’s demand for insulin to metabolize glucose.
75
Why is recognizing diabetic reactions important?
Some medical procedures require fasting, which increases the risk of dangerous diabetic reactions.
76
What is the definition of chest pain?
Chest pain is any pain or discomfort felt anywhere along the front of the body between the neck and upper abdomen.
77
Why can chest pain be difficult to assess?
Because it can originate from various structures, including the heart, lungs, esophagus, muscles, and bones, and can also be referred pain from another part of the body.
78
What are some cardiac-related causes of chest pain?
Angina, myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrhythmia, pericarditis, pericardial tamponade, mitral valve prolapse, and aortic dissection.
79
What are some respiratory-related causes of chest pain?
Pulmonary embolism, spontaneous pneumothorax, tension pneumothorax, pneumonia, and pleuritis.
80
What gastrointestinal conditions can cause chest pain?
Disorders of the esophagus, acid reflux (heartburn), and perforated viscous.
81
What musculoskeletal causes can lead to chest pain?
Rib fractures, bruising from chest trauma, muscle strain, and herpes zoster.
82
Why are diagnostic tests important for chest pain patients?
They help determine whether the pain is cardiac-related or due to another cause, and they assist in ruling out life-threatening conditions.
83
What is angina?
Angina is chest pain due to temporary ischemia (lack of blood and oxygen) to the heart muscle, usually caused by partial or complete obstruction or spasm of the coronary arteries.
84
Does angina cause permanent heart damage?
No, angina usually does not cause permanent heart damage, but it can be a warning sign of more serious cardiac problems.
85
What are common symptoms of angina?
Mild to severe chest, shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw pain Pallor or ashen skin Clammy, cool skin, cold sweat (diaphoresis) Increased pulse, respiration, and blood pressure Anxiety and dyspnea Dizziness Nausea Pain relief with rest or nitroglycerin.
86
How is angina treated?
Recognize symptoms and have the patient rest. If prescribed, the patient may take nitroglycerin (depending on facility policy). If pain resolves, document and report the incident. If symptoms persist or worsen, call for help and treat as a potential myocardial infarction (MI).
87
What is a myocardial infarction (MI)?
A myocardial infarction (heart attack) occurs when blood supply to the heart muscle is blocked, leading to ischemia and potentially irreversible necrosis (tissue death).
88
What determines the severity of an MI?
The size and location of the necrosis (dead tissue) affect the degree of altered cardiac function, ranging from minimal damage to immediate cardiac arrest and death.
89
What are classic symptoms of a myocardial infarction?
Severe, crushing, persistent chest pain unlike any other pain. Pain may radiate to left shoulder, arm, jaw, back, or neck. Dizziness, nausea, vomiting. Cold, clammy, ashen skin (diaphoresis). Increased pulse, respiration, and BP, followed by a decrease as shock worsens. Anxiety and dyspnea.
90
How might MI symptoms differ in women?
Women may have upper back pain, jaw pain, unusual fatigue, lightheadedness, or anxiety instead of classic chest pain.
91
What is the role of dysrhythmias in MI?
MI can affect the heart's electrical pathways, causing irregular heart rhythms (dysrhythmias), which may or may not be felt by the patient.
92
What are the immediate steps in treating an MI?
Call for help immediately and stay with the patient. If in severe distress, call a code. Have the patient rest completely to reduce oxygen demand. Position the patient comfortably and loosen restrictive clothing. Administer oxygen if within scope of practice. Monitor pulse, blood pressure, and respirations. Treat for shock and provide emotional support. Have IV supplies ready if needed.
93
What is a cardiac arrest?
Cardiac arrest is the absence of a heartbeat, making it a life-threatening medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
94
What is a respiratory arrest?
Respiratory arrest is the absence of effective breathing, which, if untreated, will quickly lead to cardiac arrest.
95
What should a healthcare professional do when witnessing an arrest?
Recognize the arrest or impending arrest. Call a code (often Code Blue in hospitals). Start resuscitation with respiratory support and/or CPR. Assist the Code Team upon arrival.
96
Who typically responds to a Code Blue?
A Code Blue team usually consists of an ER/ICU physician, ICU nurses, and respiratory therapists trained to manage cardiac arrests.
97
Who can experience cardiac or respiratory arrest?
Anyone, including: Post-surgical patients Seriously ill patients Patients with medical complications Outpatients undergoing tests Individuals with allergic reactions, drug overdose, or airway obstruction.
98
What are the classic signs of cardiac arrest?
No carotid or femoral pulse Dilated pupils Pale or grayish, cool skin Cyanosis (bluish lips and fingers) Absent respirations (apnea).
99
Why is it important to know hospital-specific code procedures?
Because roles and protocols in a cardiac or respiratory arrest can vary between hospitals, settings, and departments.
100
FIRE
CODE RED
101
CARDIAC ARREST
CODE BLUE
102
MASS CASUALTIES
CODE ORANGE
103
EVACUATION
CODE GREEN
104
MISSING PATIENT
CODE YELLOW
105
CHILD ABDUCTION
CODE YELLOW NURSERY
106
BOMB THREAT
CODE BLACK
107
VIOLENT PATIENT
CODE WHITE
108
HAZARDOUS SPILL
CODE BROWN
109
SYSTEM FAILURE/AIR EXCLUSION
CODE GREY
110
PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY
CODE PINK
111
ACTIVE ATTACKER
CODE SILVER