National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What is a leading cause of sudden cardiac death in individuals with cardiovascular disease?

1. Cardiac arrhythmias

2. Cardiac ischemia

3. Cardiac infarction

4. Cardiac failure

The correct answer is: Cardiac arrhythmias

The leading cause of sudden cardiac death in individuals with cardiovascular disease is primarily attributed to cardiac arrhythmias. These arrhythmias, which are irregular heart rhythms, can disrupt the normal functioning of the heart, leading to sudden and potentially life-threatening events. In patients with underlying cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease or myocardial infarction, the heart's electrical system can become compromised, increasing the risk of dangerous arrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. While cardiac ischemia, cardiac infarction, and cardiac failure are significant contributors to overall mortality and morbidity in patients with cardiovascular disease, they are generally associated with longer-term complications rather than instant death. Cardiac ischemia refers to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, and while it can lead to arrhythmias, it does not cause sudden cardiac death directly. Cardiac infarction denotes actual tissue damage due to prolonged ischemia and can be fatal, but arrhythmias are what often precipitate immediate death following these events. Finally, cardiac failure, characterized by a significant decline in the heart's ability to pump blood, results in a gradual deterioration rather than sudden mortality. Understanding the role of these arrhythmias is crucial for both prevention and intervention strategies in patients at risk