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Registered Nurse (RN)
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HESI®
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HESI®-RN Comprehensive Review
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Cardiovascular System

Ace Your HESI®-RN Comprehensive Review Classes and Exams with Picmonic: #1 Visual Mnemonic Study Tool for Registered Nurse (RN) Students

With Picmonic, facts become pictures. We've taken what the science shows - image mnemonics work - but we've boosted the effectiveness by building and associating memorable characters, interesting audio stories, and built-in quizzing. Whether you're studying for your classes or getting ready for a big exam, we're here to help.

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HESI®-RN Comprehensive Review | Registered Nurse (RN) School Study Aid

Cardiovascular System
101 Picmonics to Learn | 3 hrs 2 mins
Stable Angina
Assessment
Chest Pain with Exertion
Relieved within 15 Minutes
ST Depression
Interventions
Nitroglycerin
Up to 3 Doses q 5 Minutes
Rest
Antiplatelet Medication
CABG
Angioplasty
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2 mins
Unstable Angina
Assessment
Chest Pain with Rest or Exertion
Limits ADLs
> 15 Minutes
Less Likely Relieved by Nitroglycerin
ST Depression
Fatigue
Considerations
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) Treatment
Emergency Treatment
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2 mins
Pain Assessment
Types of Pain
Acute Pain
Chronic Pain
OPQRST Mnemonic
Onset
Provoking or Palliative
Quality
Radiation
Severity
Timing
Nursing Considerations
Subjective Findings
Objective Findings
Reassessment of Pain
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2 mins
ECG Interpretation
Rate
Rhythm
P Waves
Upright, Rounded, Before Every QRS
PR Interval (< 0.20 seconds)
Normal QRS (< 0.12 seconds)
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2 mins
Cardiac Catheterization
Considerations
Fluttering Sensation
Contrast Media
NPO 6-12 Hours
After Procedure
Bed Rest
Assess Circulation
Assess for Bleeding
Monitor Vital Signs
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2 mins
Cholesterol Lab Values
LDL (Low Density Cholesterol)
< 100 mg/dL
HDL (High Density Cholesterol)
> 40 mg/dL Males
> 50 mg/dL Females
Total Cholesterol
< 200 mg/dL
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1 min
Metabolic Syndrome
Assessment
Dyslipidemia
Central Obesity
Insulin Resistance
Hypertension
Increased C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
Increased Fibrinogen
Considerations
Increased Risk Cardiovascular Disease
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1 min
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
Indications
ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI)
Cardiovascular Disease (CAD)
Uncontrolled Angina
Considerations
Internal Mammary Artery
Saphenous (Leg) Vein
Transient Limb Edema
Closely Monitor Patients
Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Prophylaxis
Incentive Spirometer
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2 mins
Myocardial Infarction Assessment
Assessment
Substernal Chest Pain
Crushing or Dull Sensation
Arm, Jaw, and Neck
> 20 Minutes
Unrelieved by Nitro
Palpitations
Diaphoresis
Fear of Impending Doom
Nausea and Vomiting
Shortness of Breath
Considerations
Monitor for Arrhythmias
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2 mins
Myocardial Infarction Diagnosis
Diagnosis
12 Lead ECG
ST Elevation
Q Wave
T Wave Inversion
Troponin T and I
CK-MB
Considerations
Early ECG
Cardiac Stress Test
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2 mins
Myocardial Infarction Interventions
MONA
Morphine
Oxygen
Nitrates
Aspirin
Thrombolytics (tPA)
Invasive Procedures
Cardiac Catheterization
Stent Placement
Angioplasty
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
Considerations
Decrease Modifiable Risk Factors
Resuming Activity (Physical, Sexual)
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2 mins
Evolution of Myocardial Infarction and Complications
Hours to Days
Arrhythmia
Before 7 Days
Fibrinous Pericarditis
Papillary Muscle Rupture
Interventricular Septum Rupture
Before 14 Days
Ventricular Pseudoaneurysm
Ventricular Free Wall Rupture
After 14 Days
True Ventricular Aneurysm
Dressler Syndrome
Other
Left Ventricular Failure
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2 mins
Nitroglycerin
Mechanism of Action
Decreases Preload
Indications
Angina
Up to 3 doses q 5 mins
Side Effects
Headache
Hypotension
Contraindications
Viagra (Sildenafil)
Nursing Considerations
Assess Blood Pressure
Protect From Light
Use Glass Bottle and Special Tubing
Gloves for Applying Topically
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2 mins
Hypertension Medications
Diuretics
ACE Inhibitors
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
Beta Blockers
Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blockers
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2 mins
Beta Blockers
"-olol" suffix
Mechanism
Decreases Heart Rate and Contractility
Decreases Peripheral Vascular Resistance
Decreases Renin Release
Indications
Hypertension
Heart Failure
Angina Pectoris
Contraindications
Asthma and Heart Block Patients
Nursing Considerations
Assess Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
Masking Signs of Hypoglycemia
Do Not Stop Abruptly
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2 mins
Beta Blocker Antidote
Antidote
Glucagon
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Cardiovascular Effects of Beta-Blockers
Cardiac Myocytes and Vasculature
Decrease cAMP
Decreases SA and AV Node Conduction Velocity
Lower Blood Pressure
Decrease O2 Consumption
Decreases Mortality Post-MI
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2 mins
Systemic Effects of Beta-Blockers
Respiratory
Bronchoconstriction
Metabolic
Decreased Insulin
Decreased Glycolysis and Lipolysis
Eye
Reduces Intraocular Pressure
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1 min
Calcium Channel Blockers (Verapamil and Diltiazem)
Mechanism of Action
Slows AV Conduction
Indications
Angina Pectoris
Arrhythmias
Essential Hypertension
Side Effects
Bradycardia
Hypotension
Constipation
Peripheral Edema
Gingival Hyperplasia
Nursing Consideration
Medication Education
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2 mins
Cardiac Enzyme Evaluation: Creatine Kinase CK-MB
Measures
Skeletal or Cardiac Muscle Injury
Time Ranges
Onset: 4-8 Hours
Peak: 12-24 Hours
Return to Normal: 2-3 Days
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1 min
Cardiac Enzyme Evaluation: Myoglobin
Measures
Skeletal or Cardiac Muscle Injury
Time Ranges
Onset: 1 - 4 Hours
Peak: 12 Hours
Return to Normal: 24 Hours
Considerations
Elevation After 24 Hours: Reinfarction
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2 mins
Cardiac Enzyme Evaluation: Troponin
Measures
Cardiac Muscle Injury
Time Ranges
Detection in Blood: 4 Hours
Peak: 24 - 36 Hours
Return to Normal: 5 - 14 Days
Considerations
Most Specific for Cardiac Muscle
Treat Aggressively
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2 mins
Bile Acid Resins
Indications
Hyperlipidemia
Mechanism of Action
Bile Acid Reabsorption Prevented
Decrease LDL
Drugs
Colestipol (Colestid)
Cholestyramine (Questran)
Colesevelam (Welchol)
Side Effects
GI Distress
Cholesterol Gallstones
Decreased Absorption of Fat-soluble Vitamins
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2 mins
Statins
Rhabdomyolysis
Hepatotoxicity
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors
Decrease LDL
Decrease Triglycerides
Increase HDL
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2 mins
Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
Characteristics
-statin Suffix
Mechanism
HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
Indications
High Cholesterol
Side Effects
Hepatotoxicity
Rash
Rhabdomyolysis
Myopathy
Considerations
Monitor Liver Enzymes
Administer at Bedtime
Avoid Grapefruit
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2 mins
Vitamin B3 - Niacin (Nicotinic Acid)
Mechanism
Decreases Triglycerides
Decreases LDL
Increases HDL
Indications
Dyslipidemia
Pellagra
Diarrhea
Dermatitis
Dementia
Side Effects
Flushing
GI Distress
Hepatotoxicity
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High Blood Pressure Response
Characteristics
Atria Release Atrial Natriuretic Peptide
Vasodilation
Antagonizes Aldosterone
Na+ and Water Excreted
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1 min
Primary Hypertension Risk Factors
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
High Sodium Diet
Dyslipidemia
Obesity
People of African Descent
Advanced Age
Vitamin D Deficiency
Reduced Nephron Number
Diabetes
Lack of Physical Activity
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2 mins
Hypertension Assessment
Mechanism
Essential Hypertension
Secondary Hypertension
Assessment
Headache
Vision Changes
Nosebleed (Epistaxis)
Chest Pain
Syncope (Fainting)
Diagnosis
Average 2 Sets, 2 Minutes Apart
After 2 or More Visits (within 1-4 weeks)
Nursing Considerations
Take BP Both Arms
Common in African Americans
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2 mins
Supine Hypotension (Vena Cava Syndrome)
Mechanism
Compression of the Vena Cava and Descending Aorta
Signs and Symptoms
Hypotension
Dizziness
Tachycardia
Decreased Renal Perfusion
Decreased Uteroplacental Perfusion
Intervention
Side-lying Position
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2 mins
Alteplase
Mechanism
Tissue Plasminogen Activator
Indications
Thrombosis
Side Effects
Bleeding
Contraindications
Intracranial Hemorrhage
Internal Hemorrhaging
Considerations
Minimize Bleeding
Monitor for Shock
Antidote
Aminocaproic Acid
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2 mins
Venous Thromboembolism (DVT) Assessment
Mechanism
Venous Wall Inflammation caused by Thrombus
Assessment
Tenderness
Edema
Warmth
Asymmetry
Considerations
Could be Asymptomatic
Monitor for Pulmonary Embolism
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58 secs
Blood Pressure Classification (JNC 7)
Classifications
Normal
Systolic (<120)
Diastolic (< 80)
Prehypertension
Systolic +20 (120-139)
Diastolic +10 (80-89)
Stage 1 Hypertension
Systolic +20 (140-159)
Diastolic +10 (90-99)
Stage 2 Hypertension
Systolic + > 20 (160)
Diastolic + > 10 (100)
Hypertensive Crisis
Systolic > 180
Diastolic > 110
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4 mins
Venous Thromboembolism (DVT) Interventions
Anticoagulants
Prevention Education
Frequent Ambulation
Leg Exercises
Compression Stockings or SCD's
Avoid Nicotine and Oral Contraceptives
Surgery
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1 min
Pulmonary Embolism Causes
Causes
FAT BAT Mnemonic
Fat
Air
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Bacteria
Amniotic Fluid
Tumor
Risk Factors
Hypercoagulable
Central Venous Lines
Immobilized
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1 min
Pulmonary Embolism Assessment
Assessment
Shortness of Breath (SOB)
Pleuritic Chest Pain
Tachypnea
Hemoptysis
Hypoxemia
Considerations
Sudden Death
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52 secs
PT/PTT Lab Values
Prothrombin Time (PT)
10-14 seconds
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT or aPTT)
25-35 seconds
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1 min
INR Lab Value
0.8-1.2 Normal Range
Warfarin
2.0-3.0
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1 min
Varicose Veins Assessment
Cause
Increased Venous Pressure
Incompetent Valves
Assessment
Telangiectasias
Small Reticular Veins
Dilated and Tortuous Veins
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1 min
Varicose Veins Interventions
Laser Therapy
Sclerotherapy
Removal of Saphenous Vein
Considerations
Avoid Prolonged Standing
Elastic Compression Stockings
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2 mins
Superficial Thrombophlebitis
Cause/Mechanism
IV Catheter Irritation
Assessment
Erythema
Cord-like Vein
Edema
Interventions
Remove IV Catheter
Elevate
Warm Compress
Considerations
Rotate Sites Q3 Days
Aseptic Technique
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2 mins
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (Venous Stasis Ulcer) Assessment
Venous Stasis Ulcer
Uneven Edges
Dull Persistent Pain
Medial Malleolus
Necrotic
Normal Pulses
Lower Leg Edema
Bronze-Brown Pigmentation
Warm
Pruritus
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2 mins
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (Venous Stasis Ulcer) Interventions
Frequently Elevate Legs
Avoid Standing/Sitting for Long Periods of Time
Elastic Compression Stockings
Bilayer Artificial Skin
Daflon
Wound Dressings
Proper Foot and Leg Care
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2 mins
Hydrochlorothiazide HCTZ
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits Reabsorption NaCl and H2O
Indications
Edema
Mild to Moderate Hypertension
Side Effects
Hypokalemia
Hyponatremia
Dehydration
Hyperglycemia
Gout
Contraindications
Sulfa Allergy
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
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1 min
Loop Diuretics
Mechanism of Action
Thick Ascending Limb of Loop of Henle
Inhibits Na+-K+-2Cl-
Sulfa Drug
Drug Names
Furosemide
Lasix
Side Effects
Ototoxicity from Rapid Injection
Gout
Dehydration
Hypocalcemia
Hypokalemia
Orthostatic Hypotension
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2 mins
Loop Diuretic Education
Furosemide (Lasix)
Indications
Heart Failure
Pulmonary Edema
Acute Renal Failure (ARF)
Edema
Education
Notify the provider of weakness, dizziness, or muscle cramping
Increase Potassium Intake
Check BP Daily
Daily Weights and Monitor IandOs
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1 min
K+ Sparing Diuretics
Indications
CHF and Hypertension
Hypokalemia
Hyperaldosteronism
Mechanism of Action
Collecting Tubule
Spironolactone
Competitive Aldosterone Receptor Antagonist
Amiloride and Triamterene
Block Na+ Channels
Side Effects
Hyperkalemia
Gynecomastia
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2 mins
Spironolactone (Aldactone)
Mechanisms
Inhibition of Aldosterone
Potassium Retention
Indications
Hypertension
Edema
Heart Failure
Side Effects
Hyperkalemia
Endocrine Effects
Consideration
Avoid Potassium Supplements
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2 mins
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors
"-pril" Suffix
Mechanism of Action
Block Renin Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS)
Indications
Hypertension
Heart Failure
Side Effects
Dry Non-productive Cough
Hypotension
Dizziness
Possible Hyperkalemia
Angioedema
Nursing Considerations
Slowly Change Position
Do Not Stop Abruptly
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2 mins
NSAIDs
Indications
Anti-inflammatory
Analgesic
Fever
Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Mechanism of Action
Reversible Inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2
Block Prostaglandin Synthesis
Side Effects
Interstitial Nephritis
Gastric Ulcer
Renal Ischemia
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1 min
Prazosin (Minipress)
-osin suffix
Mechanisms
Selective Alpha-1 Receptor Blocker
Indications
Hypertension
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Nightmares
Side Effects
Orthostatic Hypotension
Tachycardia
Priapism / Inhibition of Ejaculation
Nasal Congestion
Considerations
First Dose Effect
Administer at Bedtime
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2 mins
Clonidine
Mechanism of Action
Alpha-2 Agonist
Indication
Hypertensive Urgency
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Tourette Syndrome
Opioid Withdrawal
Side Effects
CNS Depression
Respiratory Depression
Hypotension
Considerations
Rebound Hypertension if Abrupt Cessation
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2 mins
Hydralazine (Apresoline)
Indications
Severe Hypertension
CHF
Reduced Afterload
Pregnancy
Mechanism of Action
Vasodilates Arterioles
Side Effects
Drug-induced Lupus
Reflex Tachycardia
Hypotension
Considerations
Combined with Diuretic and Beta Blocker
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1 min
Minoxidil (Loniten, Rogaine)
Mechanism
Vasodilates Arterioles
Indications
Severe Hypertension
Baldness
Side Effects
Reflex Tachycardia
Blood Volume Expansion
Hypertrichosis
Pericardial Effusion
Rash
Considerations
Give with Beta Blocker and Diuretic
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2 mins
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
Ends in "-sartan"
Mechanism of Action
Blocks Angiotensin II Receptor
Indications
Hypertension
Side Effects
Angioedema
Contraindications
Renal Artery Stenosis
Pregnancy
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1 min
Arterial Ulcer Assessment
Absent or Decreased Pulses
Intermittent Claudication
Sharp Pain
Dependent Rubor
Well Defined Edges
Over Bony Areas
Smooth, Shiny Skin
Toes, Heels, Lateral Lower Legs
Cool
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2 mins
Arterial Ulcer Interventions
Saline Dressing
Structured Exercise Programs
Fibrinolytics
Antiplatelet Medication
No Caffeine, Nicotine
Surgery
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1 min
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Mechanism
Atherosclerosis
Assessment
Intermittent Claudication
Pain with Exercise
Paresthesias
Arterial Ulcers
Critical Limb Ischemia
Amputation
Consideration
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
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2 mins
Amputation
Indications
Trauma
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Diabetes Complications
Considerations
Gentle Handling
Surgical Tourniquet at Bedside
Prevent Contractures
Frequent Inspection
Compression Bandages
Phantom Pain
Mirror Therapy
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2 mins
Heparin (Unfractionated)
Mechanism of Action
Suppresses Coagulation
Indications
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Pulmonary Embolism
Side Effects
Hemorrhage
Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT)
Considerations
Monitor aPTT
Preferred (Safe) During Pregnancy
Antidote
Protamine Sulfate
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2 mins
Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT)
Pathophysiology
5-10 Days After Heparin Exposure
Heparin-Platelet Factor 4 Complex
Autoantibodies Form Against Complex
Heparin-Platelet Factor 4-Antibody Complex Binds Platelets
Platelet Aggregation
Procoagulant Release
Symptoms
Thrombocytopenia
Diagnosis
Serotonin Release Assay (SRA)
Treatment
Stop Heparin, Start Direct Thrombin Inhibitor
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2 mins
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits Clotting Factors
Indications
Atrial Fibrillation
Venous Thrombosis
Pulmonary Embolism
Assessment
PT/INR Levels
Observe for Bleeding
Contraindications
Pregnancy
Nursing Considerations
Vitamin K and Fresh Frozen Plasma
Prolonged Therapeutic Onset
Maintain Same Diet
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2 mins
Warfarin Antidotes
Antidotes
Vitamin K
Fresh Frozen Plasma
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59 secs
Ticlopidine (Ticlid)
Mechanism
ADP Receptor Antagonist
Irreversibly Inhibits Platelet Aggregation
Indications
Thrombotic Event Prevention
Side Effects
Neutropenia
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP)
GI Distress
Rash
Considerations
Withhold Before Surgery
Monitor Blood Count
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2 mins
Clopidogrel (Plavix)
Mechanism
ADP Receptor Antagonist
Prevent Platelet Aggregation
Indications
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)
Prevention of Thrombotic Events
Side Effects
Bleeding
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP)
Pancytopenia
Abdominal Pain
Considerations
Withhold Before Surgery
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2 mins
Enoxaparin (Lovenox)
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits Clotting Factors
Factor Xa
Indications
Clot Formation Prevention
Side Effects
Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT)
Bleeding
Considerations
Medication Education
Subcutaneous Injection
2 Inches from Umbilicus or Incisions
Antidote
Protamine Sulfate
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2 mins
Abciximab and Tirofiban (GP IIb/IIIa Inhibitors)
Mechanism
IIb/IIIa Receptor Inhibitors
Inhibits Platelet Aggregation
Indications
Thrombotic Event Prevention
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)
Side Effects
Bleeding
Considerations
Expensive
Combination Drug Therapy
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2 mins
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Assessment
Mechanism
Atherosclerosis
Assessment
Bruit
Pulsation in Abdomen
Abdominal or Lower Back Pain
Tearing Pain
Diagnosis
Ultrasound
Considerations
Rupture
Shock
Surgical Repair
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1 min
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Rupture
Clinical Features
Acute Tearing Pain
Pulsatile Abdominal Mass
Grey Turner Sign
Cullen Sign
Hypovolemic Shock
Diagnosis
Diagnosis by Clinical Impression
Treatment
Emergent Surgical Intervention
Considerations
Poor Prognosis
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Bleeding Precautions
Things to Avoid
Hard Foods
Aspirin Products
Blowing Nose Forcefully
Straining During BMs
Enemas or Rectal Suppositories
Pads and Monitor Menstruation
Guidelines to Follow
Soft-bristled Toothbrush
Electric Razor
Limit Needle Sticks
Smaller Needle Size
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3 mins
ECG: Sinus Tachycardia
Rate
> 100 bpm
Rhythm
Regular
P Wave
Present, Upright, Every QRS
PR Interval
< 0.20 seconds
QRS Interval
< 0.12 seconds
Treatment
Treat Underlying Cause
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2 mins
ECG: Sinus Bradycardia
Rate
< 60 bpm
Rhythm
Regular
P Wave
Present, Upright, Every QRS
PR Interval
< 0.20 seconds
QRS Interval
< 0.12 seconds
Treatment
Atropine
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1 min
ECG: Atrial Fibrillation
Rate
Variable Rate
Rhythm
Irregular Rhythm
P Wave
No P Wave
PR Interval
No PR Interval
QRS Interval
QRS < 0.12 Seconds
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1 min
ECG: Atrial Flutter
Rate
Variable
Rhythm
Regular or Irregular
P Wave
Saw Tooth, Multiple Before Every QRS
PR Interval
Non-measurable
QRS Interval
< 0.12 seconds
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2 mins
Parts of an ECG
PQRST
P Wave
Atrial Depolarization
QRS Complex
Ventricular Depolarization
T Wave
Ventricular Repolarization
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2 mins
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for Adults
Steps Before CPR
Scan Scene
Activate Emergency Response System
Check For Breathing (Max 10 Seconds)
Open Airway
Compressions, Airway, Breathing (CAB)
Compressions: 2 Inches Deep (100-120 Compressions/Min)
Airway: Ensure Airway is Still Open
Breathing: Administer 2 Rescue Breaths
Considerations
Repeat C-A-B Sequence (30:2) Until Help Arrives
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3 mins
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Procedure
Internal Body Images
Detects Variations of Soft Tissues
Considerations
No Metal Objects
No Pacemakers
Contrast is Non-Iodine
Safe During Pregnancy
Long Procedure
Antianxiety Medications
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2 mins
Heart Failure Interventions
Diagnostic Tests
Echocardiogram
Invasive Hemodynamic Monitoring
Improve Gas Exchange
High Fowler's Position
Oxygen
Advanced Airway
Drugs and Devices
Diuretics
Beta Blockers
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
ACE Inhibitors
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Pacemaker
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2 mins
Lidocaine
Mechanism
Blocks Na+ Channels
Indications
Ventricular Arrhythmia
Anesthetic
Side Effects
Paresthesias
Seizures
Respiratory Depression
Drowsiness
Consideration
Anesthetic Effects Extended with Epinephrine
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1 min
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Mechanism
Blocks Na+ Channels
Indications
Tonic-clonic Seizures
Side Effects
Ataxia
Nystagmus
Sedation
Gingival Hyperplasia
Purple Glove Syndrome
Hirsutism
Rash
Anemia
Considerations
Individualized Dosing
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2 mins
Amiodarone
Mechanisms
Class III Antiarrhythmic (K+ Channel Blocker)
Decreases SA and AV Node Conduction
Inhibits Cytochrome P450
Indications
Supraventricular Tachycardia with Heart Failure
Ventricular Tachycardia
Side Effects
Hepatotoxicity
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Bradycardia
Heart Block
Thyroid Disorders
Blue/Gray Skin Deposits
Corneal Deposits
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3 mins
Atropine
Mechanism of Action
Muscarinic Antagonist
Indications
Bradycardia
Increased Exocrine Secretions
Smooth Muscle Spasms
Side Effects
Tachycardia
Dry Mouth
Urinary Retention
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2 mins
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Mechanism of Action
Increases Inotropy
Indications
Heart Failure
Atrial Fibrillation
Side Effects
Bradycardia
Fatigue
Contraindications
Heart Block
Nursing Considerations
Heart Rate Below 60
Hypokalemia
Monitor for Toxicity and Visual Changes
Digibind
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2 mins
Acute Digoxin Toxicity
Clinical Symptoms
Hyperkalemia
Cholinergic (Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea)
Blurry Yellow Green Vision with Halo of Light
Arrhythmia
Bradycardia
EKG Changes
Prolonged PR interval
Decreased QT
Scooping on EKG
T Wave Inversion
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2 mins
Digoxin Toxicity Treatment
Activated Charcoal
Slowly Normalize K+
Digibind (Anti-Digoxin Fab)
Magnesium Sulfate
Lidocaine
Cardiac Pacing
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2 mins
Epinephrine (Adrenaline)
Mechanism
Alpha and Beta Agonist
Indications
Anaphylaxis
Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG)
Bleeding
Cardiac Arrest
Side Effects
Tachycardia
Hypertension
Tremors
Insomnia
Considerations
Multiple Strengths
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2 mins
Types of Heart Failure
Left Sided
Pulmonary Congestion
Right Sided
Peripheral Edema
High Output
Unable to Meet Metabolic Needs
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1 min
Left Heart Failure Assessment
Pulmonary Assessment
Pulmonary Congestion
Pink Frothy Sputum
Wheezing or Crackles
Dyspnea with Exertion
Cough
Systemic Assessment
Fatigue
Tachycardia
Weak Peripheral Pulse
S3, S4 Heart Sounds
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1 min
Right Heart Failure Assessment
Jugular Venous Distention (JVD)
Peripheral Edema
Hepatosplenomegaly
Nocturia
Weight Gain
Ascites
Fatigue
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1 min
Endocarditis Assessment
Infection of Inner Layer and Valves
Assessment
Fever
Fatigue
New or Changed Murmurs
Roth's Spots
Splinter Hemorrhages
Janeway Lesions
Osler's Nodes
Considerations
Heart Failure
Embolization
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2 mins
Endocarditis Interventions
Interventions
IV Antibiotics
4-6 Weeks
Anticoagulants
Good Hygiene
Considerations
Closely Monitor
Antibiotic Prophylaxis
Dental Procedures
Invasive Procedures
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1 min
Acute Pericarditis Causes
Idiopathic
Infection
Trauma
Cardiac
Myocardial Infarction
Autoimmune Diseases
Uremia
Tumor
Radiation
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2 mins
Acute Pericarditis Assessment
Pericardial Sac Inflammation
Assessment
Sharp Chest Pain
Increased with Inspiration
Pain Decreased by Leaning Forward
Pericardial Friction Rub
Diffuse ST-Elevation
T Wave Inversion
Fever
Considerations
May Be Asymptomatic
Cardiac Tamponade
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2 mins
Acute Pericarditis Interventions
Interventions
Treat Underlying Disorder
Antibiotics
Colchicine + NSAIDs
Corticosteroids
Place Patient Upright with Head of Bed at 45°
Pericardiocentesis
Pericardial Window
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2 mins
Aortic Stenosis
Characteristics
Age-related Calcifications
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Crescendo-decrescendo Murmur
Systolic Murmur
Ejection Murmur
Ejection Click
Radiates to Carotids and Apex
Pulsus Parvus et Tardus
Syncope
Helmet Cells
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2 mins
Mitral Stenosis
Characteristics
Murmur Follows Opening Snap
Late Diastolic Murmur
Enhanced by Expiration
Low-Pitched Rumbling
Dilation of Left Atrium (LA)
Recurrent Attacks of Rheumatic Fever
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2 mins
Tricuspid Regurgitation
Holosystolic
Blowing Murmur
Radiates to Right Sternal Border
Enhanced by Inspiration
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1 min
Mitral Regurgitation
Characteristics
Holosystolic
Blowing Murmur
Loudest at Apex
Radiates toward Axilla
Louder by Squatting
Hand Grip
Expiration
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1 min
Aortic Regurgitation
Auscultation
Diastolic Murmur
Immediate High-pitched
Blowing Murmur
Clinical Findings
Wide Pulse Pressure
Water Hammer Pulse
Head Bobbing
Pulsating Nail Bed
Considerations
Can Cause Austin Flint Murmur
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1 min
Syphilis
Mechanism
Treponema pallidum
Assessment
Primary Stage
Painless Chancre
Secondary Stage
Rash on Palms and Soles
(Generalized) Lymphadenopathy
Condylomata Lata
Latent Stage
Asymptomatic
Tertiary (Late) Stage
Aortitis
Neurosyphilis
Gummas
Interventions
Penicillin
Jarisch-Herxheimer Rash
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3 mins
Cardiac and Circulation Assessment
HEART ASSESSMENT
Inspect General Appearance
Inspect Chest
Note Location of Apical Impulse
Percuss Chest Wall
Auscultate Heart Sounds: S1, S2, S3, S4
Auscultate for Pericardial Friction Rub and Murmurs
VASCULAR SYSTEM ASSESSMENT
Assess Skin, Fingernails and Toenails
Check Carotid Artery and Jugular Vein
Palpate Skin for Temperature, Texture, Turgor
Check Capillary Refill Time
Palpate Arterial Pulses Bilaterally
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5 mins

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