Lecture Notes: Atherosclerosis and Hypertension

Introduction

• Presenter: Cathy from Level Up RN
• Topics: Atherosclerosis and Hypertension
• Includes a quiz at the end

Atherosclerosis

• Definition: Buildup of plaque on arterial walls

  • Plaque impairs blood flow
  • Can rupture, leading to thrombus or embolus
  • Can cause myocardial infarction (MI) or stroke

• Risk Factors:

  • Older age
  • Immobility
  • Smoking
  • Increased cholesterol
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Stress

• Assessment & Symptoms:

  • May cause hypertension
  • Narrowed arterial lumen increases blood pressure
  • Possible presence of bruits (turbulent blood flow)

• Laboratory Findings:

  • Elevated LDL levels
  • Elevated triglycerides

• Treatment & Management:

  • Cholesterol-lowering medications (e.g., statins)
  • Lifestyle modifications: quit smoking, weight loss, exercise, heart-healthy diet

Hypertension

• Definition: High blood pressure

  • Due to increased peripheral resistance and/or cardiac output
  • Often associated with atherosclerosis

• Potential Consequences:

  • Damage to heart and blood vessels
  • Increased risk for MI or stroke

• Types of Hypertension:

  • Primary (Essential) Hypertension:
    • Risk factors: family history, increased sodium intake, obesity, smoking, stress, hyperlipidemia
  • Secondary Hypertension:
    • Caused by medication or disease
    • Risk factors: kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, Cushing syndrome, pheochromocytoma

• Signs & Symptoms:

  • Usually asymptomatic
  • Hypertensive crisis possible with symptoms like headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness

• Diagnosis:

  • Elevated BP on two or more visits
  • Varies by source:
    • American Heart Association: Stage 1 if systolic >130 or diastolic >80
    • Joint National Committee: Stage 1 if systolic >140 or diastolic >90
  • Important to confirm which guideline is followed

• Treatment:

  • Medications: diuretics, calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors
  • Lifestyle modifications:
    • DASH diet: more vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy, less sodium, saturated fats, trans fats
    • Weight loss
    • Stress reduction
    • Smoking cessation
    • Limit alcohol
    • Regular blood pressure monitoring at home

Quiz

1. Fill-in-the-blank: A buildup of plaque on the arterial walls is called ___.
   • Answer: Atherosclerosis
2. True or False: Individuals with hypertension are typically asymptomatic.
   • Answer: True
3. Scenario: An individual with a history of hypertension complains of a headache, chest pain, and shortness of breath. What complication does the nurse suspect?
   • Answer: Hypertensive crisis

Conclusion

• Encourage use of flashcards and other resources
• Invitation to subscribe, like, and share the video
• Call for feedback and comments