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Cardiovascular on the RCSI theory paper

Cardiac output, blood pressure, heart failure, DVT, anticoagulation and the observations that go with them.

27 multiple-choice questions, each with an explanation and the document it was checked against. Three questions are free; the pass opens the other 24 and every other topic. Wrong answers come back first the next time you practise, and a question counts as mastered after two correct answers in a row.

Sample questions from this topic

Question 1
When does the HSE advise adults aged 18 to 39 with no family history to have blood pressure checked?
1. AAt least once every 5 years
2. BEvery 10 years
3. CEvery year
4. DNot before the age of 40
Show answer
Answer: A. HSE: adults aged 18 to 39 with no family history should have blood pressure checked at least once every 5 years; those over 40 or with risk factors should be checked more often.
Source: HSE: High blood pressure (hypertension)
Question 2
What does the Irish Heart Foundation say about activity and rest in heart failure?
1. AComplete bed rest is essential
2. BAvoid exercise because of the risk of collapse
3. COnly supervised cardiac rehabilitation is safe
4. DCombine regular exercise with periods of rest
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Answer: D. Irish Heart Foundation: regular exercise keeps the body in condition and helps heart failure symptoms; being out of condition adds stress to the heart. Combine periods of exercise and rest, building up gradually.
Source: Irish Heart Foundation: Heart failure
Question 3
A patient with heart failure wakes at night suddenly and severely breathless. What does the Irish Heart Foundation advise?
1. ADrink fluids and sit by an open window
2. BUrgent attention; call an ambulance
3. CLie flat and wait for it to pass
4. DTake an extra dose of diuretic and rest
Show answer
Answer: B. Irish Heart Foundation: sudden severe breathlessness at night (paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea), breathlessness at rest or with less and less activity, requires urgent attention and an ambulance; it can indicate acute pulmonary oedema.
Source: Irish Heart Foundation: Heart failure

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Every fact was checked against the public document named on the answer. This topic draws on:

Cardiovascular: RCSI aptitude test practice questions

Cardiovascular on the RCSI theory paper

Sample questions from this topic

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