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What assessment findings would indicate a cardiovascular abnormality?

User Tyann
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Final answer:

Findings such as abnormal results on an electrocardiogram, symptoms suggesting poor oxygenation, and abnormal physical exam results including hypoxemia and unusual heart or lung sounds may indicate cardiovascular abnormalities, necessitating further medical investigation or treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

Assessment findings that may indicate a cardiovascular abnormality include several physiological signs and test results. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, lack of exercise, obesity, high blood cholesterol, poor diet, depression, and excessive alcohol intake can predispose an individual to cardiovascular diseases. Tests such as an electrocardiogram may show abnormal electrical patterns such as deviations before the QRS complexes, or increased frequency between them, suggesting alterations in heart rhythm and potentially indicating a condition like atrial fibrillation. Symptoms accompanying a 'relative bradycardia' could suggest insufficient oxygenation despite a normal heart rate (HR). The absence of normal electrical activity could imply asystole or a flatline, with expectations of no palpable pulse or heart rate. During a physical examination, findings like an elevated heart rate, hypoxemia as determined by a pulse oximeter, abnormal auscultation sounds, or the presence of a lung 'shadow' seen on a chest radiograph could suggest conditions such as heart disease or complications like pneumonia with cardiovascular impact. Each of these findings can signal an underlying cardiovascular issue that requires further investigation or immediate intervention.

User MBU
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