Congestive Heart Failure CHF

1. Describe the common clinical manifestations of left and biventricular CHF.

2. Explain the pathophysiology mechanisms by which congestive heart failure produces its classic clinical signs and symptoms.

3. The evaluation of congestive heart failure demands an awareness of possible precipitating causes. Identify and explain the mechanism of five causes.

4. Identify common office examination maneuvers and laboratory and diagnostic procedures which can assist in determining the etiology of congestive heart failure.

5. Describe the non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments of CHF, their mechanism of action and possible adverse affects.

6. Explain the effects of diuretics, digitalis, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers and vasodilator on ventricular function.

7. Describe the New York Heart Association's classifications of CHF and its clinical importance.

8. Explain why it is important that isolated right heart failure (cor pulmonale) not be confused with left ventricular failure.

9. Identify those risk factors or the clinical history associated with right heart failure.

Sources:

Family Medicine:  Ambulatory Care and Prevention, Chapter 72, Pages 447-458

Fishman's Medicine

"Preventing Congestive Heart Failure"  American Family Physician  April 15, 1998  (link to website)