APEA EXAM STUDY GUIDE
Must Know Topics For 3P Exam
Cardiovascular
a. Atrial Fibrillation:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia characterized by rapid and irregular beating of the atria. It
can lead to thromboembolic events, particularly stroke, due to the formation of blood clots in the left
atrial appendage. Management includes rate control, rhythm control, and anticoagulation therapy.
b. Peripheral Artery Disease:
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs,
often causing leg pain during exertion (claudication). Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes,
medications to improve blood flow, and possibly surgical interventions.
c. Varicose Veins:
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear blue or dark purple. They occur when valves
in the veins fail, leading to pooling of blood. Treatment options include lifestyle modifications,
compression stockings, sclerotherapy, and surgical procedures.
d. Heart Failure:
Heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the
body’s needs. Symptoms include shortness of breath and fatigue. Management involves lifestyle
changes, medications such as diuretics and ACE inhibitors, and sometimes devices or surgery.
e. Peripheral Edema:
Peripheral edema refers to swelling in the lower extremities due to fluid accumulation. It can result from
various causes including heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency. Treatment depends on
the underlying cause and may involve diuretics or compression therapy.
f. Coronary Artery Disease:
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Coronary artery disease (CAD) is caused by the buildup of plaque in coronary arteries leading to reduced
blood flow to the heart muscle. Risk factors include hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Treatment
includes lifestyle changes, medications like statins, and revascularization procedures.
g. Anticoagulation:
Anticoagulation refers to medications that prevent blood clot formation (e.g., warfarin). They are crucial
for managing conditions like AF and CAD to reduce stroke risk but require careful monitoring due to
bleeding risks.
h. Hypertension:
Hypertension is defined as persistently elevated blood pressure which increases cardiovascular risk
significantly. Management includes lifestyle modifications and antihypertensive medications such as
diuretics or ACE inhibitors.
i. Infectious Endocarditis:
Infectious endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves caused by
bacteria or fungi. Symptoms may include fever and heart murmurs; treatment typically involves
prolonged antibiotic therapy.
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