AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

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Study for the AST Surgical Technologist Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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What term refers to the compression of the heart due to excessive fluid or blood buildup?

Cardiac arrest
Tamponade
Hypotension
Flutter

The correct answer is: Tamponade

The correct term that refers to the compression of the heart due to excessive fluid or blood buildup is tamponade. This condition occurs when fluid accumulates in the pericardial space, which is the area surrounding the heart. The buildup of this fluid creates pressure that restricts the heart's ability to expand fully and effectively pump blood, leading to decreased cardiac output and potentially life-threatening complications. Understanding tamponade is essential in surgical settings because it can arise after trauma, surgery, or in certain medical conditions, necessitating prompt recognition and management to prevent severe cardiovascular consequences. Other terms like cardiac arrest refer to the complete cessation of heart function, while hypotension indicates low blood pressure, and flutter describes a type of abnormal heart rhythm, none of which specifically address the issue of fluid accumulation affecting heart function.