3 Coronary Artery Disease Free Online FlashCards

How does coronary artery disease limit blood flow to the heart?

Atherosclerotic plaque narrows or blocks coronary arteries, reducing oxygen-rich blood flow to the heart muscle.

Why can activity provoke chest pressure in CAD?

Activity increases the heart muscle’s oxygen demand. Narrowed coronary arteries may not deliver enough additional blood to meet it.

What can result when the heart muscle receives too little oxygen-rich blood?

When blood supply cannot meet the heart muscle’s oxygen needs, myocardial ischemia can occur and cause angina.

Which changes in chest discomfort warrant urgent evaluation?

New pain at rest, worsening discomfort, or pain that does not resolve may signal acute coronary syndrome and requires urgent evaluation.

What should you do first when a patient with CAD develops chest pressure during activity?

Stop the activity, help the patient rest, and promptly assess symptoms and vital signs. Stay with the patient and follow the appropriate chest-pain or emergency protocol.

Which timing details should be included in a chest-discomfort assessment?

Ask when the discomfort began and how long it has lasted.

What three features describe the location and character of chest discomfort?

Ask where the discomfort is, what it feels like, and whether it radiates.

What should you ask about factors affecting chest discomfort?

Ask what triggers the discomfort and what relieves or worsens it.

Which associated symptoms should be assessed with chest discomfort?

Ask about associated symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, or lightheadedness.

Why compare current chest discomfort with the patient’s previous pattern?

Ask whether the patient has had a similar pattern before and whether the current episode differs from it.

How should a patient use prescribed sublingual nitroglycerin?

Use sublingual nitroglycerin under the tongue, or as directed by the prescription. Sit or lie down and follow the individualized plan.

What should a patient do if chest symptoms persist or worsen after nitroglycerin?

Seek emergency help if symptoms are severe, worsening, or not resolving. Do not take more nitroglycerin than prescribed.