Paramedic Cardiology Exam Study Guide Notes

Exam Preparation Topics

Key Areas to Review

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Index and Glossary Words: Review all conditions and medical terms listed in the textbook index and glossaries.
• Medical Terminology: Familiarize yourself with medical terms from each chapter.
• Pathophysiology

Important Concepts to Understand

1. Myocardial Infarction
2. Acetylsalicylic Acid
3. Angina Pectoris
4. Cerebral Vascular Accident: Also known as a stroke.
5. Sputum: Understand its significance in diagnosis.
6. Coronary Circulation Physiology
7. American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines
8. Cardiac Cellular Action Potential Phases
9. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): Learn its uses and effects.
10. Mechanism of Action for Cardiac Medications
11. Effects of Vagal Nerve Stimulation
12. Cardiac Electrical Conduction System
13. Pharmacology Therapy for Cardiogenic Shock
14. Starling’s Law: Understand its impact on cardiac function.
15. Effects of Intrathoracic Pressure on Cardiac Output
16. Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke

Skills to Perform

1. Differentiate and Treat Hemodynamically Unstable Conditions
2. Treat a Beta Blocker Overdose
3. Treat Chest Pain with Cardiac Origin
4. Compare Unstable vs. Stable Cardiac Treatment
5. Differentiate Between Diastolic and Systolic Heart Failure
6. Identify Chest Pain Without Cardiac Origin: For example, pulmonary embolism.
7. Differentiate Between Cardiac Compromise vs. Compensatory Reaction
8. Interpret 3 and 12 Lead ECGs

Tips for FISDAP Exam Preparation

• Refer to the "How to Succeed on a FISDAP Exam" document available in the student Help section at fisdap.net.

Ensure comprehensive understanding and practice of these topics and skills to prepare effectively for the Paramedic Cardiology Exam. Utilize available resources and practice assessments to gauge understanding and readiness.