7 Other Cardiac Emergencies Free Online FlashCards

What defines acute decompensated heart failure?

Acute decompensated heart failure occurs when the heart cannot meet the body’s needs, often causing pulmonary or systemic congestion.

What causes cardiogenic shock?

Cardiogenic shock is inadequate tissue perfusion caused by cardiac pump failure. Acute myocardial infarction is a common cause.

How should oxygen be managed after ROSC?

Initially use 100% inspired oxygen until oxygenation can be measured reliably; then titrate to avoid both hypoxemia and hyperoxemia. The AHA target is $\mathrm{SpO_2}=90\text{–}98\%$ or $\mathrm{PaO_2}=60\text{–}105\,\mathrm{mm\,Hg}$.

Which findings suggest acute heart failure with congestion?

Worsening breathlessness, orthopnea, hypoxemia, crackles, jugular venous distention, and peripheral edema can indicate acute heart failure.

How may severe pulmonary edema present?

Severe pulmonary edema may appear abruptly, with marked respiratory distress and frothy sputum.

What are key immediate steps for suspected acute heart failure?

Sit the patient upright if tolerated, assess airway, breathing, circulation, mental status, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and perfusion, and begin continuous monitoring.

When are oxygen and noninvasive ventilation considered in acute heart failure?

Give supplemental oxygen for hypoxemia. Consider noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation for significant respiratory distress if the patient can protect their airway and has no contraindication.

What medication class is commonly used for clinical congestion in acute heart failure?

IV loop diuretics are commonly used when clinical congestion is present.

When may IV vasodilators be considered for acute heart failure?

IV nitroglycerin or another vasodilator may be considered for dyspnea when blood pressure is adequate; avoid vasodilators in hypotension.

Can cardiogenic shock develop before profound hypotension?

Shock may be developing before profound hypotension appears. Warning signs include altered mentation, cool or clammy skin, weak pulses, delayed capillary refill, and low urine output.

Why should fluid boluses be used cautiously in cardiogenic shock?

Use fluids cautiously: large empiric boluses can worsen pulmonary edema. A carefully selected fluid challenge may be appropriate when low preload is suspected.

What is essential when acute coronary occlusion is suspected in cardiogenic shock?

When acute coronary occlusion is suspected, urgent revascularization assessment is essential.