CCI Cardiac Pharmacology and Hemodynamic Monitoring

Question 1

Which pharmacological agent is used as a vasodilator stressor during pharmacologic stress testing in patients who cannot exercise adequately?

Accepted Answer

Regadenoson (adenosine A2A agonist)

Answer

Regadenoson (and adenosine) is a vasodilator stressor used in pharmacologic stress testing; it causes coronary vasodilation to unmask flow-limiting stenoses in patients unable to exercise.

Question 2

What is the mechanism of action of dobutamine when used as a pharmacologic stressor in stress echocardiography?

Accepted Answer

Beta-1 adrenergic stimulation increasing heart rate and contractility to simulate exercise

Answer

Dobutamine primarily stimulates beta-1 receptors, increasing heart rate and myocardial contractility to create demand ischemia similar to exercise.

Question 3

Which hemodynamic parameter is calculated by dividing cardiac output by mean arterial pressure minus central venous pressure?

Accepted Answer

Systemic vascular resistance

Answer

Systemic vascular resistance (SVR) = (MAP – CVP) / CO × 80, expressed in dynes·sec/cm⁵, reflecting the total resistance the left ventricle must overcome.

Question 4

During a cardiac catheterization, a pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) of 22 mmHg indicates which condition?

Accepted Answer

Elevated left atrial pressure suggesting left heart failure or mitral stenosis

Answer

Normal PCWP is 6–12 mmHg; a PCWP of 22 mmHg indicates elevated left atrial pressure, consistent with left heart failure, volume overload, or mitral stenosis.

Question 5

Which class of antiarrhythmic drugs blocks sodium channels and is classified as Class I according to the Vaughan Williams classification?

Accepted Answer

Sodium channel blockers (e.g., lidocaine, flecainide)

Answer

Vaughan Williams Class I antiarrhythmics (e.g., lidocaine, flecainide, procainamide) block fast sodium channels, slowing phase 0 depolarization and conduction velocity.

CCI - Cardiovascular Credentialing International Practice Test

CCI - Cardiovascular Credentialing International Practice Test

CCI Cardiac Pharmacology and Hemodynamic Monitoring