Physician Assistant Study Sheets
Whether studying for an upcoming exam or preparing for the boards, gain an advantage with BillAthePa’s concise notes. Save time utilizing this high yield information presented in an easy to read format. The majority of test questions are derived from this material. Improve your scores by being one step ahead!
Sample:
Pericardial Effusion:
- Accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac from any disease causing systemic edema, metastatic cancer, trauma, pericarditis, LV rupture, or aortic dissection
- Can be asymptomatic to life threatening (tamponade) depending on the rate of accumulation
- MUFFLED HEART sounds and EWART sign (dullness to percussion over the left lung at the angle of the scapula)
- Chest x-ray with an ENLARGED cardiac silhouette and ECG with low voltage and electrical alternans
Low voltage and electrical alternans (alternating QRS complex height) |  |
Enlarged cardiac silhouette |  |
5. Echocardiogram is diagnostic
6. TREATMENT: manage underlying disease process and OBSERVE large effusions without intervention unless have hemodynamic compromise (tamponade)