Question Easy:
A 57-year-old man with a history of hypertension presents to the GP with complaints of breathlessness while walking up the stairs and experiencing palpitations. His blood pressure is found to be 150/95 mmHg. Which of the following lifestyle modifications should be advised initially to help manage his blood pressure? 😊
A) Increase potassium intake
B) Start a daily yoga routine
C) Reduce sodium intake
D) Drink more coffee
E) Consume more red meat
Explanations & Answers:
Question Easy Answer: C)
Question Easy Explanation: The NICE guidelines recommend reducing sodium intake as an effective initial lifestyle change for managing hypertension. Reducing salt consumption can help lower blood pressure in many individuals and is a commonly advised intervention for patients with hypertension. NHS suggests limiting salt intake to less than 6g per day.
Question Medium:
A 45-year-old woman comes to the emergency department with chest pain and shortness of breath. She has a history of smoking and a BMI of 32. An ECG reveals ST elevation in leads II, III, and aVF. What is the most appropriate immediate treatment for this patient? 🚑
A) Beta-blockers
B) IV furosemide
C) Aspirin
D) IV diamorphine
E) Alteplase
Question Medium Answer: C)
Question Medium Explanation: According to NICE guidelines, the immediate management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) should include administering aspirin (300 mg loading dose) to inhibit platelet aggregation as soon as possible. This is a critical step in the treatment of acute coronary syndromes. The other options are not first-line treatments in this emergency context.
Question Hard:
A 70-year-old man with COPD presents to the clinic for routine follow-up. He is on tiotropium and salbutamol inhalers. Over the past few weeks, he has noticed worsening dyspnea and increased cough with sputum production. Which of the following medications is recommended for addition to his regimen according to NICE guidelines to control his symptoms?
A) Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)
B) Oral theophylline
C) Long-acting beta agonists (LABA)
D) Short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA)
E) Long-term oxygen therapy
Question Hard Answer: A)
Question Hard Explanation: NICE guidelines recommend adding an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) to the regimen of a COPD patient who is already on a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) like tiotropium and who continues to have exacerbations. This step is often a precursor to considering triple therapy (adding a LABA) if symptoms persist. Long-term oxygen therapy is reserved for chronic hypoxemia.
Medical fact of the day: Daffodil bulbs contain galantamine, a compound used in treating Alzheimer’s disease. One such field near Brecon in Wales supplies around 20% of the world’s demand for galantamine! Although not directly related to cardio-respiratory systems, it’s a fascinating part of UK-related pharmaceutical history.
Quote of the day: “In the rhythm of care, every heartbeat of compassion syncs with resilience, crafting a symphony of healing.”